The Lady Cardinals finish 23-11 after a five-set loss in the Division II state quarterfinals at the Cajundome.

LAFAYETTE, La. – E.D. White volleyball ended its season Thursday afternoon with a five-set loss to Academy of Our Lady. The No. 10 Penguins defeated the second-seeded Lady Cardinals 3-2 in the LHSAA Division II state quarterfinals at the Cajundome.

E.D. White led two sets to one and stood one win away from the state semifinals. However, Academy of Our Lady took the final two sets to complete the comeback.

E.D. White volleyball takes a 2-1 lead

Academy of Our Lady opened with a close 25-23 win in the first set. In response, E.D. White took control of the second set and won 25-13.

The Cardinals then carried that momentum into the third set. They won it to take a 2-1 lead, putting a semifinal berth within reach.

Penguins rally to win in five sets

Academy of Our Lady answered with a 25-19 victory in the fourth set. As a result, the teams headed to a deciding fifth set with their seasons on the line.

Both teams fought for every point in the final set. Ultimately, the Penguins won 15-12 to secure the match and end the Cardinals’ championship run.

Lady Cardinals finish with a 23-11 record

Despite the quarterfinal loss, E.D. White finished the season 23-11 and earned the No. 2 seed in Division II. Head coach Sarah Johnson led the young roster to playoff wins over McDonogh 35 and Pearl River before the state tournament.

Meanwhile, the Cardinals relied on their only senior, Kiley Johnson, for leadership and experience throughout the year. She helped guide a group that gained valuable postseason experience.

Although the season ended short of a semifinal appearance, the young Cardinals have a foundation to build on. Their trip to the Cajundome gives the returning players experience heading into next season.

Final score:

Academy of Our Lady- 3

E.D. White- 2

Match photo gallery