Messenger photo by Britt Kudla: Aleah Anderson was one of seven St. Edmond seniors playing in their final match on Wednesday at Newell-Fonda.

NEWELL — The St. Edmond volleyball team didn’t go away quietly against seventh-ranked Newell-Fonda in a Class 1A quarterfinal here on Wednesday.

The Gaels (9-22 overall) dropped straight sets 25-22, 25-18 and 25-16 to the Mustangs (27-3).

“The girls lost in three, but gave Newell-Fonda a run for their money,” said first-year SEHS head coach Josephine Alstott. “They played with a ton of heart and tenacity.

“I am really proud of how they performed against a rated opponent. It’s always disappointing having a season-ending match, but they left it all on the court with no regrets.”

Aleah Anderson had seven kills and 13 digs to lead the Gaels. Lexi Mericle contributed six kills, two aces and eight digs.

Mya McClain tallied 19 digs and three aces. Sasha Hess notched eight digs.

Kierstin Clark had 20 assists, while Emma Alstott had four kills and eight digs. Lauren Gibb recorded three kills.

It was the last match of the season for seniors Clare Conrad, McClain, Anderson, Alstott, Mericle, Alyson Nieland and Clark.

“It all started in sixth grade through now (with the seniors),” Alstott said. “This group has a special bond on the court. They all supported each other, whether it was their favorite sport or they knew it was their teammates’ favorite. Sometimes they’d get after each other like sisters, but they’d text each other after with ‘I love you.’ I told them at the beginning of the season that to be their best they’d all need to contribute their best, and they did.

“This group is special because of their love for the sport. Their drive and determination to make each other better. The time spent every fall, winter and summer to improve their volleyball IQ and game.”