Emilee Cunningham tips the ball over the net against Jacksonville Saturday at the Von Braun Center in Huntsville. | Todd Barker

Brent Maze
Hartselle Enquirer

HUNTSVILLE – Priceville took one step further than it did last year in the North Super Regionals. However, it was still one step short of their ultimate team goal.

The Lady Bulldogs (33-16) were eliminated by Jacksonville 3-0 in the Class 4A North quarterfinals, ending one of the most successful seasons in school history.

Head coach Catrina Mason said her team achieved a number of firsts during this season, including winning their area for the first time and achieving a top 10 ranking. She hopes that they will be able to hang a banner to recognize their successes this season.

“I couldn’t be more proud of them,” Mason said. “We’re disappointed that we didn’t make it to state, but it’s been a great season for our team.”

Mason credited the success to her seniors, setter Peyton Parker, middle hitter Emilee Cunningham, outside hitter Alex Moore and libero Kayla Parton.

“They certainly set the bar high for our younger girls,” Mason said. “I know they wanted to get to state, but I think they will be able to come back here and see the banner from this season and feel pretty good about what they accomplished.”

Priceville rallied back from a two-set deficit against Crossville to win 23-25, 21-25, 25-17, 25-16, 19-17.

Alison Varner led the way with 17 kills, four aces and five digs. Cunningham had 17 blocked shots while freshman Hayden Hanserd had 10 blocks. Moore also added 16 kills while Peyton Parker had 37 assists and 12 digs.