After a two-year absence, the Isabella volleyball program is headed back to the Elite Eight state tournament.

The No. 9 Mustangs (29-8) punched their ticket Thursday with a 3-2 (20-25, 25-23, 25-11, 16-25, 15-10) win at Washington County that was closer than coach Glen Graham would have liked.

“One of the things I said to them afterwards was, ‘Ya’ll give people their money’s worth,’” Graham said. “We were so tight and nervous, but it has been a fun day.

“We’re extremely proud of them because a lot of people wrote us off at the beginning of the season.”

The Elite Eight tournament will be held Oct. 28-30 at the Pelham Civic Complex.

On Thursday, Amber Wyatt paced the Isabella attack with 23 kills and 10 blocks.

Allison Mims contributed six kills, five digs and five aces. Kimi Jones had seven digs.

Jessica Maciel had 18 assists, and Marlee Hayes had 14 assists.

Savannah Kissel was good for nine kills and five aces, and Ashley Carlisle had five aces and four digs.