WHITTEMORE-PRESCOTT - Feb. 5 2005 - The Whittemore-Prescott volleyball team advanced to the semifinals of its home invitational on Saturday, winning three matches and splitting one before falling to defending Class C state champion New Lothrop.

The Cards opened with a 20-25, 25-22 split with Oscoda and went on to beat Lincoln-Alcona 25-19, 25-12, Mio AuSable 25-13, 25-21 and Tawas Area 25-20, 25-22. W-P fell to New Lothrop 19-25, 23-25.

"It was a fun day," W-P coach Helen Loomis said. "Despite a 'sleepy' start in Game 1 against Oscoda, I  felt the girls played well throughout the day. It was encouraging to see the girls 'almost' beat New Lothrop.

"The girls are becoming more consistent and less streaky and thus building up their confidence. I'm hoping it continues."

New Lothrop went on to defeat Oscoda in the tourney championship match.

Leading the Cards (23-7-5) were Kelli Barriger with 15 aces and 38 digs; Erica Loomis with 37 kills and 10 blocks; and Theresa Janish with 31 service points and 82 assists.