Montezuma clinches SICL title

MONTEZUMA — Coming into this volleyball season, Montezuma wanted to finish in the upper third of the South Iowa Cedar League.

On Thursday, they did much more than that.

The Bravettes swept Keota to move to 9-0 in SICL play, and with HLV-TC defeating North Mahaska, they officially clinched the conference title with a game to spare.

“From day one, we’ve pushed each other to be our best, and it’s great to see how far that’s brought us,” senior captain Lily Ferry said.

“We’ve grown so much as a team and built a bond that feels like family, so this accomplishment means so much more than just a title.”

The accomplishment was reached by seeking improvement in the off-season in several areas.

“We came into the season and knew we had to improve our kill efficiency,” head coach Tim Burgess said.

”The summer was primarily dedicated to hitting and setting. On paper, all six of our front row positions improved in hitting percentages.“

The Bravettes kill efficiency jumped from .106 last season to .150 this season through 29 matches.

Although passing improvements can’t be measured statistically, the team has also improved in that area.

“More efficient passes during free ball opportunities has been instrumental in allowing our setters to do their job and provide good opportunities for our hitters,” Burgess said.

Team unity has also played a vital part of this season’s success, with many of the same players from the previous season.

“Loving each other, and accepting roles,” Burgess said on where they improved the most. “All roles on a team are different, but equally important. This team has accepted that better than most I have been around over the years.”

The Bravettes have not just skated by en route to their conference title, they’ve dominated.

No team has forced a fifth set, and the team has three-set sweeps in five of their wins.

This is Montezuma’s first conference title since 2021 when they also went undefeated.

Iowa Valley remains for the Bravettes Monday as they chase a perfect 10-0 record.

“I am beyond blessed and proud of the family we have created here to earn this title,” senior captain Chloe Snook said.

“The hard work and determination finally showed off, and we got what we strived for since July. I will be forever grateful and proud of this accomplishment.”

Montezuma will open regional play against Lone Tree Monday, Oct. 20.