The Crowther Memorial Sr. Girls Volleyball Team travelled to Red Deer Lake just south of Calgary for their first tournament and real game in over two years. It was all smiles as the team came home golden after winning the tournament.

The new restrictions and guidelines did not allow for spectators, but the Cougars were just happy they were allowed to play.

"We had no expectations of gold this weekend. We went into the tournament this weekend with the goal of learning and understanding our system. Every game the girls gained a better understanding of the system. In the semi and final it looked like we knew the system well and could focus on playing volleyball. It's a great way to start the season, but these girls will have to work hard if they want continued success,” said Coach Jerry Flaws.

In the first game against Heritage Christian Academy, the Cougars looked rustier than the opposition. They battled hard and came away with a split, losing the first game 25-18 and winning the second 25-21. In the second match of the day, they came up against the host team and dropped both sets, 25-20 and 25- 22.

The playoffs on Saturday started well with a convincing victory over Meadow Lake 25-19 and 25-18. The Cougars played Heritage Christian Academy again in the semi-final and came out on top. Emma Breakers' 11 serve run helped secure the 25-20 victory in the first set. In the second set, the Cougars kept the pressure on and won 25-18 advancing to the final against Red Deer lake.

“The girls played really well as a team in the final. They covered for each other when out of position and served really well. They captured the gold with scores of 25-22 and 25-18,” said Coach Flaws.