CORALVILLE, Iowa — Grundy Center battled back from a two-set deficit to defeat Beckman Catholic in five sets during the Class 2A state volleyball quarterfinals Tuesday at Xtream Arena. The Spartans fell behind early but stormed back for a 20-25, 10-25, 25-23, 25-23, 15-13 victory to advance to Wednesday’s semifinals against top-ranked Denver at 4:25 p.m.

After trailing 22-14 in the third set, Grundy Center mounted a comeback behind strong hitting from Ryanne Brubaker, who led the Spartans with 22 kills, and Jenna Blythe, who added 17. Charlee Kirkpatrick contributed nine kills and two blocks, while Lauren Zajac totaled 30 assists. Libero Raelyn Steinmeyer recorded 20 digs to anchor the defense.

Beckman Catholic, which ends its season at 32-8, was led by Joy Burkle’s 22 kills and Paige Fangman’s 48 assists. Grundy Center, now 36-9, finished with 10 total team blocks and held off multiple Beckman rallies down the stretch to complete the comeback.