KEARNEY, Neb. —The Ellinwood Eagles varsity volleyball team closed out the summer in championship style, taking home the Nebraska-Kearney A Division team camp title.

Ellinwood survived elite competition from Colorado, Iowa, Kansas, South Dakota and Nebraska.

Competing in the A Division against some of the Midwest’s toughest varsity squads, the Eagles soared to a 14-2 pool play record, earning the No. 1 seed heading into the prestigious Gold Bracket.

Ellinwood defeated perennial contender Kearney Catholic and Hays in two sets each to cap off an impressive summer run.

“The girls built more intensity and focus with each match,” said Ellinwood volleyball coach Greg Maxwell. “This group has grown tremendously. To come away as UNK camp champions is a huge accomplishment and confidence boost heading into the fall.”

Maxwell said Ellinwood's seniors have stepped up.

“Our seniors have been excellent on-and-off the court this summer," he said. "With improvements each year, the girls achieved their 4-year goal to win this camp championship. We're very proud of them.”

Maxwell believes with the leadership, depth, and determination on full display throughout camp, the Eagles have solidified themselves for a 2A state volleyball run in the fall.

Ellinwood (42-5) placed fourth in 2A after losing 25-22, 25-17 to state champion Shawnee Maranatha and 25-21, 16-25, 25-18 to Inman for third place.