Opening the 2018 season in thrilling fashion, the Oak Harbor High School volleyball team eked by visiting Meadowdale 3-2 Thursday, Sept. 6.

The teams traded 25-22 wins in the first two games, with the Wildcats claiming the initial set.

Oak Harbor rallied from an 11-1 deficit in the third game and fought to a 28-26 win in game three.

The Mavericks knotted the match with a tense 25-23 win in the fourth game.

The largest margin of victory came in the decisive fifth set when Oak Harbor won 15-9.

“Meadowdale is a very strong defensive team,” Oak Harbor coach Kerri Molitor said. “They were difficult to score against.

“I’m proud of the girls; they stuck together. Everyone contributed to our first match win.”

The Wildcats’ offense was directed by setter Leah Quidachay, who handed out 51 assists, leading to 26 kills by Morgan Pease and 18 by Cami Bristow.

Pease also had five aces and Bristow four.

Ceirra Dean guided the defense with 32 digs; Bristow added 13, Quidachay 12 and Pease 11.

Payton Parks registered five blocks.

Oak Harbor plays at Cedarcrest (0-1) at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 11.

Cami Bristow powers the offense. (Photo by John Fisken)

Leah Quidachay servers for Oak Harbor. (Photo by John Fisken)

Jaslin Webster lets a serve fly in Thursday’s win. (Photo by John Fisken)

Morgan Pease smashed 26 kills in the win over Meadowdale. (Photo by John Fisken)