Whitehall’s boys volleyball team opened up district play with a 3-0 (25-17, 25-20, 25-22) quarterfinal victory over Freedom on May 21 at Whitehall.

“I feel good. I think we’re in a good spot,” said Whitehall coach George Cowitch. “I told the guys before, playoff games aren’t easy. It doesn’t matter who you’re playing.”

The Patriots put up their biggest fight in the third set as the teams tied multiple times.

The Pates then took a two-point lead on a knockout kill from Logan Shupp, but Jack Kocher had an identical response on behalf of the Zephyrs to regain the lead.

Michael Rabih’s kill soon after elicited a huge response from the Zephs.

“It’s nice that our guys appreciate that and the fans appreciate it,” Cowitch said. “Michael doesn’t get set a ton, but when he does, he’s been good for us.”

Freedom’s Ayden Willman tied the set at 20-20, but after a long rally that ended in Whitehall’s favor, it was clear that Patriot coach John Yanek was certain the point should’ve gone to the Pates.

Ethan Ringenberger scored the last point to put the Zephyrs in a semifinal against Emmaus at 5 p.m. on May 23 at Catasauqua High School.

“We still could play a lot better, so we need to bring it for Thursday. A good practice is probably the best thing that could happen,” said Whitehall middle hitter Peter Tabarani. “We have to be ready. First play, we’ve got to score, and then we have to keep going from there.”