Monday night’s volleyball matchup between the Delavan Panthers and the Spoon River Valley Wildcats was marked by more than just competitive play—it was a night of unexpected glitches, spirited resilience, and community pride.

A 30-minute delay kicked off the evening after transportation issues with the Wildcats’ bus pushed back the start time. Once inside Poppenga Gymnasium, a malfunction in the PA system added to the disruption, silencing the usual pregame fanfare. Without the traditional team introductions or the recorded National Anthem, the crowd was left in quiet anticipation—until the Wildcats took the lead in a moment that turned technical trouble into something memorable. Players and fans from both sides joined together in an impromptu, heartfelt rendition of the National Anthem, filling the gym with unity and pride before the first serve was ever struck.

When play finally began, the Panthers came out swinging, determined to shake off a recent rough patch. Though they ultimately fell in straight sets—25-17, 25-18—Delavan showed fight in every rally, scoring at least 17 points in both frames.

Charlie Green and Addi Fisher led the offensive charge with three kills apiece, while Fisher also topped the team in assists with five. On the defensive side, Green—wearing number 3—and Jaylyn Diekhoff, number 12, made their presence felt at the net with a series of extraordinary blocks and hustle plays that kept the Wildcats on their toes and the crowd energized.

The loss drops Delavan to 3-16 on the season..

Even in defeat, the Panthers proved that perseverance and pride run deep in Delavan—on the court and in the stands.