While Liberty and Bethlehem Catholic have taken most of the headlines this season in girls volleyball, Freedom has quietly gone about their business.

The Patriots (10-6, 8-6) have clinched a berth in the district postseason and are hoping for a spot in the East Penn Conference playoffs as well heading into this week.

Unfortunately, Monday’s loss to Becahi 17-25, 14-25, 23-25 may have put a dent in their chances for the EPC playoffs, but head coach Donna Roman is still optimistic about her team’s chances.

“The last time Freedom qualified for districts was three years ago,” said Roman. “Freedom has not qualified for leagues during our seniors’ time in high school as well. This season is a testament to our players’ hard work and determination for raising the level of Freedom volleyball.”

In Monday’s loss, Roman had a better plan against the Hawks (12-3, 11-3) but the defending 2A state champs were just too much.

“In our last match against Beca, we came out strong in the first set,” said Roman, “but fell apart in sets two and three, allowing their strong players, especially Jordan Young, to dominate the net. I wanted to see a consistent performance tonight, including aggressive hitting, getting a double block on their strong hitters, and better defensive movement to the ball.”

The Pates still have two matches left this week with Allen (4-12, 3-10) on Wednesday and their regular season finale on Thursday against division leader Liberty (15-1, 13-1).

With the postseason in their sights, Roman and company are excited about what’s ahead, which hopefully includes a berth in the EPC tournament.

“It’s very important for us to qualify for the EPC tournament,” she said. “We see it as an opportunity to play the best.

“Since we do not get to play the entire conference throughout the season, playoffs is the opportunity to compete against the best in conference. That competition breeds success.”

Liberty took down Dieruff Monday night in three games [25-12, 25-11, 25-6] and close out this week with two tough matches against city rivals, starting with a road matchup at Bethlehem Catholic (12-3, 11-3) tonight, followed by tomorrow’s bout with Freedom.

The Hawks have already clinched both postseason berths and will look for some revenge on the Hurricanes this week after losing to Liberty in five games earlier this season.

They wrap up their season on Friday against Easton (6-9, 4-9) before prepping for the EPC playoffs.