A higher finish in the provincial championships eluded the Pen High Lakers junior boys volleyball team in West Kelowna Nov. 26-28.

Yet, placing 14th among 24 teams didn’t diminish what was considered a great season.

“Everyone worked hard,” said Lakers assistant coach Annika Everton. “Had quite a few players really develop and improve a lot. One who never played before and ended up being one of our best players (Nathan Clements).”

The Lakers, who won the Okanagan Valley championship, lost a crucial match against Victorias Royal Bay Ravens in three sets, 15-25, 25-19 and 15-12 after finishing second in their pool. Had they won, they could have finished in the top eight, which was their goal going in.

“It was really hard to lose that one,” said Everton. “After that we still played well.”

The coaches then gave most of their players as much playing time as possible so they could gain experience on the court. After losing to the Ravens, the Lakers faced Creston’s Prince Charles Bulldogs and lost in two sets, 25-15 and 25-23. The Lakers faced the Mt. Boucherie Bears for 13th spot and lost in two sets.

“As captain, I was excited to see my teammates play their best,” said Dan Everton.

Dan said being at provincials was a cool experience, especially the banquet and skills competition.