As the time for the game neared, hundreds of people, including an unexpected Superman, gathered for the girls’ volleyball team season opener. There was no denying that both teams, Cairn University and Immaculata University, were well supported. Immaculata was a worthy opponent; they had strong serves and a defense line that worked in their favor, despite the inaccuracy of some of their spikes. CU’s plays were full of surprise spikes and close saves, including some nail-biting plays that brought the ball back into the court. “Quite impressive, jaw dropping, and a step up from last year’s plays,” one commentator said about CU’s gameplay.

The crowd was ecstatic. “LET’S GO CU!” the crowd chanted as the girls’ volleyball team left it all on the court. The fans were nothing short of reassuring from start to finish. Fans filled up the bleachers top to bottom, cheered for their team, stomped their feet, and sang along to 21 Pilots during time outs; the crowd was completely involved, adding positive energy and encouragement to the atmosphere.

The game consisted of three sets that started with CU in the lead but ended with Immaculata in the lead. It was close, and no one can deny it was an incredible, thrilling game. Both teams tried to be witty with their plays in order to get a significant lead, but it just wasn’t possible. They were stepping on each other’s heels which kept the game interesting. It could have gone either way at any moment.

“THIS IS KILLING ME!” yells someone else in the crowd, because by the third quarter the suspense was high. There were no breathers, no opportunities to say, “Okay, we are at a safe distance now.” The girls worked hard every second of the game to make Immaculata work for their win. At the bench, no seats were getting warm. Both team’s benches were up on their feet cheering for their teams.

“CU! VOLLEYBALL! GIRLS!” the crowd chants again as CU finally got the lead in the middle of the third quarter. CU was only three points away from winning the quarter, which would have meant adding an extra set to the game. Player number 15 completely slammed the ball on Immaculata’s side. However, the visiting team quickly picked up the pace to take advantage of several miscommunications on CU’s part to even the score. Two points away. One point away. And Immaculata takes the game after an intense battle.

Even though the home team wasn’t the victor, the crowd applauded them as they waved goodbye and thanked their supporters for coming. They left reminiscing of what could have been a win for CU, but no one left disappointed. Even Superman left with a smile on his face.