Lukancic Middle School of Romeoville put up a good fight but came up just short 25-23, 25-14 and 25-9 against South Middle School of Arlington Heights in the Illinois Elementary School Association eighth grade volleyball regional finals Thursday.
The Flames (16-5) had eliminated A. Vito Martinez Middle School of Romeoville 25-10 and 26-16 earlier in the evening in a semifinal contest. They also tripped Humphrey 25-22 and 25-23 in the quarterfinals.
Coached by Gale Bekielewski with assistance from Kim Dreisbach, team members include Lyric Miles, Kristina Diaz, Oliwia Wlodek, Christina Leonardo, Gabi Chavez, Laurel Wirkus, Alexis Perez, Ashley Moore, Klaudia Chlebek, Marissa Stirn, Dakotah Eberhardt, Karolina Gabarczyk, Julia Reyes, Megan Teschke and Brianna Dever. Managers are Casey Sturmon, Gianna Dever, Mark Hamilton and Louis Ramirez.
Martinez (15-8-1) advanced to the semifinals with a 25-20, 20-25, 25-10 win over Brooks Middle School.
Editor's note: Valley View submitted this article.