When senior Paige Steward walked into the gym last Monday, Oct. 17, she knew it was an important game.

Girls’ varsity volleyball celebrated senior night on Oct. 17 for their last regular season game against Bloomington Kennedy.  The Orioles lost 2-3.

According to Steward, the game was an emotional experience for her and the other seniors.

“It didn’t really hit me that is was the last game until [the team] started giving their speeches,” Steward said. “It made me realize what an impact I had on the team and what impact it had on me.”

Senior Amaia Floreal said the speeches from other members of the team after the game made the night even more special.

“They gave us all flowers. Then they had us stand there together and they told us how much they loved us and how much they were going to miss us,” Floreal said. “I could not stop crying.”

Junior Julia Austad said it was difficult knowing the season was coming to an end but she was happy for the experience.

“It was hard to think that I only have a few games left with these girls that I’ve spent so much time with, but I tried to stay positive and make it a happy night,” Austad said.

According to Steward, the team played well despite bad calls from the referees.

“We played really well which made the loss harder. The refs were being really strict with all their calls,” Steward said. “They seemed a little biased. ”

Austad said the team is working hard at practice to prepare for sections.

“We are pushing ourselves in practice and trying new things to figure out what works best.” Austad said.

The varsity team ended their regular season with a record of 11-11.

The Orioles play their first section game on Oct. 25. Their opponent and location will be determined on Oct. 23.