Amidst bursts of cheers of students and parents in Tewksbury Saturday night, the Hillers Varsity Volleyball Team won the Division II State Championship match against Westborough in their final match of the season, ending their undefeated season at 25-0.

After their semifinal win against King Phillip’s Academy, the team advanced to play the number one seed, Westborough.

For the eight seniors (Kate Powers, Melanie Gildea, Mikayla Grady, Sarah Furlong, Kate Dion, Cathryn Leighton, Meg Maccaron, and Sam Berenson), this game was their final match.

This would also be coach Margie Grabmeier’s final season coaching the team. After 18 years with the varsity team and over 300 wins, Grabmeier decided to retire. The varsity team dedicated this season to making sure she went out in style.

“I feel lucky to have been able to coach in Hopkinton for the past twenty years and I’m so happy to have been able to retire with this special team,” Grabmeier said.

“We all love Margie and to send her out with a win and the state title is so special,” senior Kate Powers said. Powers lead the side with a strong performance, including 14 kills.

As for the underclassmen on the team, this was still a memorable season. For sophomore Abby Hebert, this team has created many memories for her.

“Not only does this team hold such a special place in my heart, but so does everyone who comes and supports us,” Hebert said. “I’m so lucky to be part of the team and experiencing these incredible moments.”

A large Hopkinton crowd packed the away gym. Many dressed in their pep rally camouflage attire and were enthusiastic throughout the game. As Mikayla Grady blocked the game-winning point.

“It was just the best feeling ever,” Grady said.

Even though they fell in the first set, the team came back to win three straight sets for the match.

“The key to this team’s success is their mental strength and team chemistry,” Grabmeier said.

“They never believe that they will lose. Even down a set point multiple times, they trust that they will make the plays to come out on top.”

With the season over and many seniors and beloved Coach Grabmeier leaving the returning players will have a title to defend next season.

“I’m excited to see what is to come,” Hebert said.