DC-S Tigers, S.V. Eagles soar to tournament titles

AXTELL, Neb. — The Dundy County-Stratton and Southern Valley girls both finished 2024 in fine style with tournament titles last weekend.

Dundy County-Stratton (6-2 record) continues to stand tall as freshman Abi Spargo’s 13 rebounds helped win an Axtell Tournament title from Chambers-Wheeler-Central by a 34-29 final.

Kimberly Escobar played a super-clutch all-around game featuring 12 points, seven rebounds and two steals.

Sophomore Emily Schack stepped up for another 11 points with six rebounds.

The Tigers continue winning despite some early-season injuries and ailments.

They quickly stole hope from Heartland Lutheran during a 54-30 semifinal victory.

DC-S will get a next good test when the Tigers invade Imperial to face Chase County on Tuesday.

SV Eagles rule

Meanwhile, Southern Valley’s girls ruled the Arapahoe Invitational. They only allowed 44 points during two dominating victories.

First, Southern Valley toppled Blue Hill 40-18 with senior Tori Bose’s 13 points powering this semifinal win.

She also blocked three Blue Hill shots while senior Adi Hunt jumped in to deflect nine passes.

Remember, Hunt was fresh off a recent record-setting 13-steal performance.

Hunt tracked down six more Eagle points though senior Brynn Baily was next with nine points as Southern Valley’s returning top post.

Remember, the Eagles return four starters off last year’s state finalist team.

Southern Valley then broke free from Arapahoe, 49-26, Friday night to determine the tournament champions.

Offense played a more important role as senior Vanesa Aguayo netted 15 points.

Hunt tallied 12 points while Bose delivered a double-double of 10 points, 10 rebounds.

Senior Brecklyn Hamnmond added seven big points.

Suttyn Shafer and Clara Hilker each netted eight points for improved 6-4 Arapahoe.