Bell City wins Stoddard Co. Tournament

ESSEX, Mo. -- Bell City won the championship match of the Stoddard County Tournament Saturday, winning its first title since 1997 with a 16-14, 15-10 victory over Richland.

The Lady Cubs (14-5-1), who took second place last year. were trailing 14-11 in the first set before rallying to win.

"I thought we played well," Bell City coach Carl Ritter said. "Richland got up for it on their home floor. It was a good game."

Katie Spears had 17 kills, nine digs and eight service points, while Katie Niemczyk had nine kills, 18 digs and nine points. Bell City also got 23 assists and 10 points from Whitney Abner; and 10 digs from Katie Goodman.

Bernie captured third place by defeating Dexter.