Although Regionals pairings were announced the day before, the Bulldogs knew taking down the higher-ranked Verdigris on Thursday would prove beneficial for potential State Tournament seeding. And the program's four seniors led the charge.

Libero Rebekah Kratzer, setter Chloe Ricke, and middle blockers Emmaus Patterson and Kenlee Steele were surrounded by family and friends as they were celebrated for their contributions to the legacy of Lincoln volleyball before taking the court for their final home match.

Steele and Patterson combined for 4 blocks and 7 kills, Ricke had 22 assists, and Kratzer led the team in digs with 12.

The first four sets were won and lost by small margins (25-22, 25-27, 25-21, 23-25), but in true Bulldog fashion, the team came out with a force in the fifth set and finished the match 15-9.

Lincoln is set to host the Regional Tournament next Thursday with the first match against Harding Prep at 4:30pm. If the Bulldogs win, they will advance to the Regional Championship at 7:30pm for a chance to punch their ticket to the State Tournament.