Community hosts Rock Island (10-18) in the IHSA Class 4A Regional Semifinal Oct. 28 at 6 p.m. in the teams’ first meeting this season.

9-seed Rock Island snapped a four-match skid, eliminating the 8- seed Richwoods Knights in two sets Oct. 27. 

The top-seeded Ironmen enter regional-play with a 30-5 record, having won nine of their last 10 matches.

“We’re playing really well right now,” Konopasek said. “We beat Lockport in two on Saturday.”

The Iron swept the Porters, winning 25-19 both sets, defeating a Lockport team that began Saturday’s tourney play with a 27-6 record, ranked 8th in State and 6th in Class 4A.  

That feat came with the Iron playing shorthanded. 

“Sam Lakamp,” the team’s 1000-assist setter, “has been out,” Konopasek said. “We’ve been juggling the lineup a little bit.”

Despite the injury, the veteran head coach remains confident in the squad’s chances.

“If we are playing like how we can play,” Konopasek said, “then we should take care of business.”

A win would send Community to Thursday’s Regional Final against the Moline–Lincoln-Way West winner, with a chance at a second-straight regional title. 

With Community hosting Regionals, Konopasek said, home court provides the Ironmen an edge.

“It’s so great to not be on the bus,” Konopasek said. 

The Ironmen expect a lift from the stands, too. 

“Knowing you’ve got some people behind you matters,” Konopasek said. 

If Community advances, first serve in the Regional championship is set for 6 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 30 at Community.