Warm welcome for state runners-up

Many of the members of Burlington Central High School's volleyball team had long faces Sunday less than 24 hours after losing the state title to Joliet Catholic.

But it was hard to keep those frowns in place, at least for a little while.

The girls beamed when a gym full of about 70 people got to their feet and gave them a standing ovation.

"It feels amazing," co-captain Molly Turk said after the rally as she wiped tears from her eyes. "I can't be more happy, it just feels really great to be part of such a supportive group."

After coming out on top in sectionals and supersectionals, the team on Saturday fell to the nationally ranked Joliet Catholic in the match that decided the class 3A state champions.

But they still made history by being the first Burlington Central team to play for a state title.

"You fought hard," said Athletic Director Dan Cliffe. "You played hard."

The school hastily organized a welcome home rally for Sunday to congratulate the team and their coaches on their unprecedented run. Parents, school officials and friends were all there to honor the young women. Due to a family emergency, district Superintendent Brad Hawk could not attend, but sent his congratulations.

The Rockets, with a record of 35 wins and six losses this season, energized the school these past three weeks, said Dave Olson, principal of Burlington Central High School.

Head coach Marv Leavitt said they'll try to do it again next year.

"This has been a whirlwind for all of us ... it's been a dream," he said.

For their part, the team gave thanks to their parents and the school for providing them with food at every away game and for washing their uniforms - things the team never had to worry about.

"With high school sports, it's not always about winning, it's definitely about the people who supported us on the way," said Turk, who intends to play volleyball at the University of Northern Iowa.