"That's Union. They killed us." Three students from another high school were walking through the stands as Union began its Class 3A quarterfinal match against Osage on Wednesday in the U.S. Cellular Center, when one of them recalled an earlier game against the girls from the LaPorte City and Dysart areas. The Knights extended their record to 39-4 in matches and 94-14 in games, with defeating Osage 25-19, 25-20 and 25-20. Union seniors Megan Hudson (21 kills) and Peyton Parker (17 kills) led the Knights against the Green Devils. The secret to continued success, says Hudson, is "playing our game which means: "No matter what comes our way, we will be prepared; and no matter what kind of adverse situations come, we are a very good at making adjustments."
Falling behind 7 to 1 in game 3 was one example of that, said Hudson.
"It just made us more determined to take that game," she adds.
Union will play Mount Vernon in the semi-final round on Thursday at 2 p.m. The Mustangs were the only Class 3A team to defeat the Knights this season.
"It will be exciting," Hudson said.
By coincidence, the Union football team also plays Mount Vernon in its semi-final contest, Saturday evening in the UNI-Dome.
Before the first serve, each team had a chance to pick a Fan of the Game; the Knights chose Dave Weber, who drives them to their away games. He waved his red and grey Union cap to the crowd after his pre-game introduction.
"Hehas a family of his own and other things he could be doing, yet he chooses to be our driver and stay and support us," says Hudson. "It's extra special that when we get off the bus, he wishes us the best of luck and when he drives for other sports you can always see him there cheering loudly."
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