Cooper boys volleyball opened last week with a 3-0 loss to Elk River at home on April 22, marking its first Northwest Conference game of the season. The game came as Cooper takes part in boys volleyball’s MSHSL emerging sport season ahead of full integration next school year.
Elk River quickly built a mild lead over the Hawks in set one following a scrappy start for the hosts. Cooper began to find momentum through the leadership of libero Niko Her, as well as George Robinson. The latter was a clear threat at the net in set one, providing Cooper with some of its best offensive moments.
Libero Chase Chang went on a strong run of serves to give the Hawks some energy, while Noah Xong added some good spikes and spike attempts as Cooper looked to close the gap. Elk River held strong, however, and eventually won set one 25-16.
The Hawks looked more crisp in the second set, though Elk River did still command much of the play. Cooper’s Cheemeng Xiong made several good serves, while Her continued to be a clear influence at the heart of the line up. Robinson, Noah Xong, Jasper Yang, and Chase Chang all had moments of attacking prowess at the attack line.
Elk River went on to win set two 25-15, making the matchup 2-0 in their favor.
Small errors from Cooper helped Elk River start the third set strong, though the Hawks continued to often be split from more success by slim margins. Good serves from Tyler Thao, digs from Her, and sets from Brandon Vang kept Cooper looking lively with the ball. Elk River closed the game out with a 25-14 win.
Cooper returned to the court three days later, traveling to St. Michael-Albertville in a 3-0 loss. St. Michael-Albertville won three games from April 11 to 22, beating Centennial, Mounds View, and Andover.
Cooper will play two games next week, traveling to Wayzata on April 29 (after this edition has gone to press) and hosting Prairie Seeds Academy on Wednesday, May 1.
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