Nova Classical vs. Cannon Falls

7:15 p.m., Tuesday, Sept. 27

Nova Classical opened its season with 12 consecutive victories and climbed to No. 2 in the Class 2A rankings by the Minnesota Coaches Association.

A nice start, but questions remained about the Knights' schedule. Those questions were answered last weekend at the Minnesota High School Volleyball Showcase by beating four ranked teams, including No. 1-2A Pequot Lakes in the championship match.

And Nova Classical (18-0, 4-0) begins this week with yet another ranked opponent, a rematch with No. 5-2A Cannon Falls (12-4, 3-1). The Knights won in two sets in the semifinals at last weekend's tournament but this time will be playing on the Bombers' home court.

The Knights, led by the Ball sisters, are establishing themselves as title contenders in Class 2A. Seniors Samantha (a 5-10 outside hitter) and Allison (a 5-6 setter) and sophomore Ava (a 5-11 outside hitter) create a formidable trio for Nova Classical, which is chasing its first section championship and state tournament appearance.

Ava Ball leads the team in kills, with 184 before the weekend tournament. Samantha leads the team in digs (118) and service aces (37) and Allison leads the team in assists with 346. All three are among team leaders in each category.

Cannon Falls replaced seven graduated seniors on its roster this season and still is making noise in the highly competitive Hiawatha Valley League. Madi Burr, who led the Bombers in kills last season as a sophomore, leads the way along with sophomore Karsyn Winchell.