MOUNT VERNON — It was a hectic evening of volleyball for Sedro-Woolley.

The Cubs, who have been playing their best volleyball of the season, saw their year end. They were swept out of the Northwest 3A District tournament by Lynnwood.

The Royals defeated the Cubs 25-20, 21-25, 25-20.

The loss followed the Cubs’ opening-round, five-game loss to Meadowdale. The Mavericks lost the first two games 27-25, 25-22 only to recover and win the next three 25-20, 25-14, 16-14.

“I believe my team was tired,” Sedro-Woolley coach Doug Pass said about his team’s match against Lynnwood. “We certainly played less inspired against them (Lynnwood) than we did against Meadowdale. I tried to change things up and nothing worked. We were tired.”

The Cubs couldn’t get anything going against the Royals. They kept it close, but were just unable to get over the hump. Middle hitter Ashley Joneli kept Lynnwood honest at the net and from behind the service line with a serve that punished any Royal who was forced to receive it.

“Ashley hit it hard tonight,” said the coach, “and was able to find the deep corners. She really served very well. When we needed a run of three or four points, she supplied it. And that inspired everyone. She played with a lot of confidence and wasn’t afraid to try new things.”

Hitters Joneli and Kara Birdsell were fed by Kristal Daigle.

“Kristal passed really well,” said Pass. “And she also dug the ball very well. She made some spectacular digs during both matches. Kara, over the past two years, she has been one of our top hitters.”

Vince Richardson can be reached at 360-416-2181 or by e-mail at