Teams That Made an Impact: Prep Dig Sizzle 2025

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>It's been an exciting start to the 2025 season for many teams!</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Over 50 teams traveled to Appleton to compete for the first time with their new squads for the 2025–2026 school year. It's always a big adjustment when senior leaders graduate, and incoming freshmen are called upon to fill some big shoes. However, many teams, despite the adversity, showed immediate chemistry and cohesion on the court, playing as if they'd been together much longer than just a few weeks.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Here are a few programs that truly showed up and showed out this week:</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:separator --> <hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity" /> <!-- /wp:separator --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Freedom Varsity</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Freedom started the tournament strong, taking all three of their first games. While this squad lost a few key players from last season, they've got a solid incoming senior class ready to make a major impact this fall. I was especially impressed with their poise and determination in the matches I watched. They dropped a set in each of their three games but never let that shake them, rising to the occasion and pulling off three big wins. This is a diverse team with depth, and they consistently find ways for everyone on the court to contribute. I'm excited to watch this squad compete in the fall!</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Kimberly Varsity</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Kimberly is no stranger to tough competition, playing in arguably one of the strongest sections in the state. They showed grit and composure throughout the weekend, proving why they're a team to watch for a deep playoff run this year. I was particularly impressed with how they took down a tough Fox Valley Lutheran squad in two sets, battling back from early deficits. They also secured wins over Oregon and Hudson, who capped off their 2024 season with a trip to the Resch. Every player on the court brings a high volleyball IQ and a shared drive for success.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Oostburg Varsity</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Oostburg is coming off a solid 20–11 season in 2024, and even with the graduation of some key seniors, they looked strong against tough opponents at the Sizzle. Their energy is contagious, and the chemistry they have on the court stands out. While they dropped a couple of matches, their potential is undeniable. They never backed down from a big block or a powerful swing and proved they can match any team's pace and intensity. With their spirit and talent, I'm confident they'll shine this school season!</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph -->