North Tama has experience.
Montezuma has reinvented itself during the season.
The Redhawks (24-6) and Bravettes (20-16) collide at 7 Thursday night, Oct. 31, in Traer in the Class 1A District 4 regional semifinals.
The winner will be one win away from the state tournament.
Two years ago, these teams met in a similar situation, also in Traer. The Bravettes won the first two, then North Tama roared back to win the next two, including 25-5 in the fourth set.
North Tama prevailed 15-13 in the final set.
Two girls who played big roles for North Tama in that match will be front and center again in this one. At least two other Redhawks saw action in that match.
Katie Kopriva, now a 6-foot senior, is the Redhawks’ leader in kills, and Takoa Kopriva, a 5-4 senior, leads her team in digs.
Montezuma compares favorably – maybe a little more than favorably in some categories – on paper. But, Montezuma has played six more matches.
And, the game is played on the court, where intangibles enter in.
“Our key to success has been our ability to play together,” Dunlap said. “We’re very excited to get the chance to take on North Tama.”
The Bravettes enter having won eight of their last 10 matches.
Team leaders
Assists – Montezuma – Waverly Roorda, 477. North Tama – Isabel Sierra 496.
Kills – Montezuma – Ashlyn Krousie 260. North Tama – Katie Kopriva 234.
Blocks – Montezuma – Dylan Holland 67. North Tama – Alexis Hansen 34.
Digs – Montezuma – Maddy McKeag 288. North Tama – Takoa Kopriva 365.
Team totals
Assists – Montezuma 762, North Tama 661.
Kills – Montezuma 818, North Tama 724.
Kill attempts – Montezuma 2,582, North Tama 2,047.
Blocks – Montezuma 201, North Tama 89.
Digs – Montezuma 1,064, North Tama 1,014.
Serving percentage – Montezuma .870, North Tama .921
Serving aces – Montezuma 207, North Tama 192.
Regional semifinal match-ups
#5 North Tama (24-6) vs. Montezuma (20-16)
BCLUW (22-14) vs. Grand View Christian (22-20)
Regional finals: Two winners above play in Marshalltown at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 5.