By Derrick ForsytheRecord Staff WriterDespite falling short of its goal to advance to the championship, the Warrenton volleyball team walked away from its final game content.The Warriors concluded the season during the Class 3, District 7 semifinal last Thursday, losing to St. Dominic in two sets (16-25, 19-25).But it was the effort they gave that enabled the Warrenton netters to finish free of regret.“They played their hearts out, and the seniors left the game with a smile on their face, knowing they at least played to the best of their ability,” said Coach Kristen McDowell.Falling behind early, the Warriors couldn’t match St. Dominic’s run of four to five points, constantly finding themselves playing catch up.“They were a solid team and we struggled with serve receive,” said McDowell. “We didn’t bounce back after side out right away.“In the second set we played more consistent, but there wasn’t much room for error.”Warrenton was more competitive in the closer but not strong enough to hang with the traditional power.“Overall, I wasn’t unhappy with how the girls played,” said McDowell. “They showed they were willing to battle right down to the end.”The Warriors finished 15-11-2 during McDowell’s first season at the helm.Warrenton narrowly escaped disappointment in the first round, rallying back to defeat Wentzville Liberty in three sets (25-23, 14-25, 27-25 ) the the night before.Trailing 24-21 late in the third set, it appeared the season might end earlier than anticipated, but a few breaks provided for a comeback.“To be honest, we got lucky with a couple hits that Liberty hit out and into net to give us some points,” said McDowell. “Once the girls saw we were still in it they decided to come out and execute to finish.”After winning the first set and losing the second, the Warriors initiated a sense of urgency.“The girls started executing and picked up their consistency of play,” said McDowell.Warrenton saw the return of starter Morgan Boesel, who had missed much of the season with an ankle injury.“It took her some time to warm up, but when we needed her, she was ready to play,” said McDowell.She also was pleased with the performance by another pair of contributors.“Nicole Hardt really stepped up with her blocking, and Kayla Nelson has improved so much since the beginning of the season,” McDowell said.Anna Sutherland