The Highland Huskies picked up a conference volleyball victory over the WACO Warriors Thursday night. Highland won the first set 25-14 and stayed in control the rest of the way, claiming the next two sets 25-8 and 25-16.

Sophomore Hailey Brun led the Huskies with nine kills, while senior Adeline Krotz had a team-high three serving aces to go with eight kills. Junior Brenna Hazelett added seven kills, while senior Laney Skelton handed out 23 assists to help Higland improve to 5-0 in the North division of the Southeast Iowa Super Conference and 10-6 overall.

Sophomore Carlee Lunsford paced WACO with five kills, while senior Ella Huisenga had three kills and 10 digs as the Warriors remain winless in the Super Conference North and drop to 5-11 in total.

The Columbus Wildcats also suffered a conference loss Thursday against Wapello. Columbus dropped the first two sets 25-18 and 25-16, and while they won the third frame 27-25 to extend the match, they could not quite rally to win the fourth set as well, with Wapello claiming the win 25-21.

Kennedy Woepking had a big night for the Wildcats with seven kills and 29 digs, while fellow junior Jessica Del Rio also had seven kills. Junior Aracely Garza put up five kills, 20 digs and three aces, while setter Daniela Diaz was an all-around force with 22 assists, two kills, 22 digs and a blocked shot.

The loss drops Columbus to 5-10, including a 3-2 record in league play. The ‘Cats next play Tuesday at Louisa-Muscatine, while WACO and Highland are in action this weekend in a tournament at Cardinal of Eldon.