The Winfield-Mount Union Wolves put their season on the line tonight against one of the state’s best when they travel to take on defending state champion Burlington Notre Dame in the Class 1A Region 8 semifinals.

Winfield-Mount Union is 24-9 and has won five straight matches. Senior setter Keely Malone has been an all-around force with 87 kills, 575 assists, 45 aces, 101 digs and 27 blocks. A pair of senior hitters have also been exceptionally effective for the Wolves. Melina Oepping has a team-high 225 kills on the outside, while Bradie Buffington holds down the middle with 196 kills and 47 blocks. And, for all their attacking prowess, WMU has gotten great back-row play from senior libero Keetyn Townsley with team highs of 384 digs and 74 aces.

Fifth-ranked Burlington Notre Dame is 30-13 as they stand two wins away from a third straight region championship. Senior Gabby Deery has been an all-state talent, piling up 492 kills, 48 aces, 260 digs and 57 blocks. Senior Abby Korschgen has also dominated for the Nikes with 200 kills and 69 blocks. Winfield-Mount Union tries to topple the two-time state champs in Burlington this evening starting at 7.