The Newman Comets
moved to within one win of their first regional title since 2009, beating Marquette 25-13, 23-25, 25-22 on Tuesday in the semifinals of the Class 2A Amboy Regional.

The Comets (22-11) trailed 22-19 in the third set, but a sideout put Aubree Schmitt back at the service line. The sophomore proceeded to serve out the final five points to clinch the match.

Kayci Howell led the charge for Newman, dishing 11 assists, spiking seven kills and serving for 15 points. Schmitt added eight points and five kills, and Rachel Hageman had five kills and five blocks. Allison Shipman finished with nine assists, seven points and three aces, and Sara Nysather led the back-row defense with five digs.