Normangee girls win Regionals

Normangee’s Lady Panthers were all smiles after their victory against Iola. Sherry’s Shots The Normangee Lady Panthers defeated district foe Iola in a thrilling 5 set match at U-T Tyler on November 14th to advance to the final four in San Marcos on November 19-21. The previous day the Panthers defeated Detroit in the regional semi-finals to advance to the regional finals against Iola. Normangee and Iola tied for the district championship and Iola won a playoff match in Bryan to get the number 1 seed in district.

Both teams battled through the playoffs to reach the finals. Iola took the 1st game 25-13 but Normangee bounced back and won the second 25-15. Iola took the 3rd game 25-21 and was 1 game away from advancing to state. Normangee won the 4th game 25-16 that set up the 5th and deciding set. The 5th game is 15 rather than 25 points. The game was tied 11- 11, 12-12, and 13-13 before the Panthers grabbed 2 points and the match.

The fans from Normangee erupted from the stands as the Lady Panthers have never gone to state in volleyball. Coach Tami Dean was moved to tears of joy and relief during the trophy presentation.

Coach Dean is assisted by Billy Bob Evans and David Mantooth. Coach Evans had several state championships during his tenure at Leon but was as excited about this team and going to state as anyone there. Evans said during an interview “You need to be able to pick the time and place to defeat the opposition” and this was certainly the time and place for this important win. In four meetings this year Iola and Normangee won 2 each but the Panthers won the match that counted.

Both teams are well coached and it’s a shame that both couldn’t advance in the playoffs. Good luck to the Panthers as they attempt to win 2 more games and be the 1-A state champion.