The Grand Rapids Christian Eagles played in the highly competitive Jenison Invitational this weekend, facing tough opponents in a 16-team tournament. This marked the fifth consecutive tournament of the season for the Eagles, who emerged with an impressive 4-1 record, securing a third-place finish after a hard-fought battle against the D1 2nd-ranked Jenison High School.

The Eagles began their day with a commanding performance against Zeeland West High School. The Eagles won the match with a 2-0 victory, with scores of 25-15 and 25-19. The team established control early, exhibiting solid first contacts that contributed to a passing average of 2.3. Anwen Amash stood out with a team-leading average of 2.5. In addition, the Eagles demonstrated their serving prowess, racking up a total of 11 aces, with Madi Peal leading the way with five.

Next up GRC went up against Sparta High School, and the Eagles continued their dominant streak, once again winning 2-0, with scores of 25-6 and 25-10. The standout moment of the match came when Piper Cebulski achieved a significant milestone, serving 18 consecutive serves and securing five aces. The Eagles also has an impressive team hitting efficiency of .564, with Grace Goodyke leading the offensive charge with eight kills and a hitting percentage of .727.

In their final pool play match, the Eagles faced off against D2 rival South Christian, successfully winning another straight set, 2-0, with scores of 25-20 and 25-20. The Eagles maintained their solid passing with an average of 2.3. Mallory Bremer greatly contributed offensively, recording nine kills with a hitting percentage of .467, while Taylor Frost set the tone for the team's success with 11 assists.

Having finished1st in their pool, the Eagles advanced to the gold bracket, where they continued to impress by defeating top-ranked Byron Center High School. The Eagles once again demonstrated hard work, winning convincingly with scores of 25-14 and 25-17. The team exhibited smart and aggressive volleyball, applying pressure with seven blocks—two by Grace Goodyke, Mya McKinnen and Piper Cebulski, with Sylvia Setsma adding another. The setters combined for an impressive 20 assists, and on offense, McKinnen and Cebulski each nailed six kills, with hitting percentages of .750 and .500.

In the semi-finals, the Eagles faced their toughest challenge yet against Jenison High School. Despite their best efforts, they fell short with scores of 24-26 and 19-25. The Eagles put forth a strong fight and demonstrated their resilience, recording five blocks and 25 digs, ultimately making Jenison earn each point. Grace Goodyke led the offensive efforts with nine kills and a hitting percentage of .471, while Lucy VanDrunen added five kills to the total.

Despite not advancing to the finals, the Eagles' performance at the Jenison Invitational reinforced their status as a competitive force this season. With exceptional teamwork, skillful play, the Grand Rapids Christian Eagles have proven they are ready for the challenges ahead as they continue their volleyball campaign. GO EAGLES