Meet Some Of The Teams Competing At The State Tournament: 4A/ 3A

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>I am so excited to have gotten the privilege to talk to some of these coaches about how they're feeling going into the State Tournament as well as looking back on their seasons. I absolutely love doing write-ups about athletes, but I also think there is something really special about getting recognition from other coaches that you've competed against all season. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">4A</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Norwalk- Coached by John Fulton</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":4} --> <h4 class="wp-block-heading">Current Record: 30-6</h4> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":4} --> <h4 class="wp-block-heading">Talking with Head Coach John Fulton:</h4> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":4} --> <h4 class="wp-block-heading">1. How are you feeling about the postseason and going into the state tournament?</h4> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>We are super excited heading into the state tournament. It is definitely a different feeling going in as a higher seed the last couple of years vs this year when we have the target on our back. Our girls have done a really good job all year handling that pressure and we love playing competitive volleyball and are looking forward to a really competitive tournament. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":4} --> <h4 class="wp-block-heading">2. What has your team done well this season that's gotten them to this point?</h4> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>I think all of our players have have done a great job continuing to grow into their various roles as the season has progressed. We had a lot of experience in some key positions heading into the season, but we also had a lot of new girls step up and continue to grow into some important roles as well. We have also played a lot of great competition throughout the season that have pushed us as well as helped us grow throughout the year.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":4} --> <h4 class="wp-block-heading">3. What is your main focus heading into state?</h4> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Our main focus heading into state is the same focus we've had throughout the season and that is the serve and pass game. We want to continue to serve aggressively and keep teams out of system and we want to be able to stay in system and run our offense as much as possible. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":4} --> <h4 class="wp-block-heading">4. Is there a different team that you've enjoyed watching this season and why?</h4> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>We have had the opportunity to watch some really good teams, it would be hard to single out just one, but one of our favorite tournaments that we participated in this year was the East vs West Showdown at the Xtreme Arena in early October. It was really cool for our girls to play in that environment against some really good teams from all across the state.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":4} --> <h4 class="wp-block-heading">5. Who was your favorite team to play this season and why?</h4> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Our girls really enjoy playing conference matches in a best of five format so anybody from a really tough Little Hawkeye matchup are some of our favorite matches.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":4} --> <h4 class="wp-block-heading">6. If you could shout out one player from your team, who would it be and why?</h4> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["766713"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6ae82697a0935"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">"If I could shout out one player from our team it would be our senior libero, [player_tooltip player_id='809159' first='Reese' last='Heim']. She makes some of the most difficult parts of volleyball look easy most of the time. She is one of the best serve receivers in the state and she does a fantastic job with reading defensively to put herself in a position to make a lot of plays for us."</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":4} --> <h4 class="wp-block-heading">7. If you could shout out one player from another team, who would it be and why?</h4> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["781517"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6ae82697a0978"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">"I would have to give a shout out to Haddie Smith from Cedar Falls. She is one of the most dynamic middles that we have seen play this year and we ended up playing Cedar Falls twice, at the beginning of the season and at the end of October. As a sophomore she has improved so much throughout the season and it will be really cool to see how much she continues to improve over the next couple of years.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":4} --> <h4 class="wp-block-heading">8. What makes this group so special, and what is your favorite thing about this team?</h4> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>This group just loves playing together and competing together. They have so much fun on and off the court and it is so much fun to come into practice day in and day out and watch these girls continue to work towards their goals. I'm really looking forward to seeing what they can do on the big stage.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Assumption- Coached by Greg Cotton</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":4} --> <h4 class="wp-block-heading">Current Record: 25-7</h4> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":4} --> <h4 class="wp-block-heading">Talking with Head Coach Greg Cotton:</h4> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":4} --> <h4 class="wp-block-heading">1. How are you feeling about the postseason and going into the state tournament?</h4> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>I think we have a lot of nervous excitement, we will have 3 kids who have played on that stage before and 6-7 who play regularly that haven't, so we will be leaning a lot on past experience to weather any early match butterflies we might have.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":4} --> <h4 class="wp-block-heading">2. What has your team done well this season that's gotten them to this point?</h4> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>I think our schedule has prepared us well for the post season, although I wish some of the early season matches had come at the end of September/ early October. We have been resilient when getting down early and managed to stay the course with what we have to do to come back and win matches.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":4} --> <h4 class="wp-block-heading">3. What is your main focus heading into state?</h4> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Honing in on our serve and pass is definitely a main focus for us. We are also heavily focusing on controlling the controllable and maintaining a clean mind and steady heartbeat. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":4} --> <h4 class="wp-block-heading">4. Is there a different team that you've enjoyed watching this season and why?</h4> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>The Iowa volleyball scene gets deeper and deeper every year. There are so many amazing teams that we've seen this year, I don't know if I could really pick a favorite. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":4} --> <h4 class="wp-block-heading">5. Who was your favorite team to play this season and why?</h4> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>I would probably have to say Pleasant Valley for a few reasons. It's a conference match and we usually only get to face them once a year so when we do it's always very competitive and high level competition. We also haven't beaten them in for a number of years until we were able to take them down in 5 close sets this season.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":4} --> <h4 class="wp-block-heading">6. If you could shout out one player from your team, who would it be and why?</h4> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>"If I could shout out anyone on our team it would have to be our captains <a href="https://prepdig.com/player/emmy-burkhart/" data-type="players" data-id="555771">[player_tooltip player_id='807931' first='Emmy' last='Burkhart']</a>, <a href="https://prepdig.com/player/piper-hodge/" data-type="players" data-id="742600">[player_tooltip player_id='742600' first='Piper' last='Hodge']</a>, and <a href="https://prepdig.com/player/belle-cotton/" data-type="players" data-id="694203">[player_tooltip player_id='694203' first='Belle' last='Cotton']</a>. They have had a tough job this year, stepping into the shoes after we graduated a huge class of experienced seniors this past year. They've had to quickly learn how to be leaders of a very new and young varsity group with a lot of new faces. I'm really the young players, young leaders, and the young women they are becoming. Our team is very lucky to have those 3 leading us through this journey."</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":4} --> <h4 class="wp-block-heading">7. If you could shout out one player from another team, who would it be and why?</h4> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["490013"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6ae53215ea839"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">"I would definitely have to shout out [player_tooltip player_id='490013' first='Logan' last='Vogt'] from Waukee Northwest. It's very obvious that Logan in on a whole other level and still has the potential to keep growing. She is such a dynamic volleyball player and overall athlete whose presence on the court truly makes a major impact. She is always such a fun player to watch and I know she's going to go on to do big things at the collegiate level."</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":4} --> <h4 class="wp-block-heading">8. What makes this group so special, and what is your favorite thing about this team?</h4> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>We have a young group of kids who just want to go out there and work hard to prove that grade level doesn't matter and they do a great job learning from our older girls to leave it all out on the court. On some nights, their best might not win a match, but I don't think we leave many matches thinking we didn't give it out all. They are continuing to grow their IQ of the game based on the situations we have exposed them to and are really starting to feet and their on-court personalities at the perfect time.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">North Polk- Coached by Samantha Sheldon</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":4} --> <h4 class="wp-block-heading">Current Record: 27-13</h4> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":4} --> <h4 class="wp-block-heading">Talking with Head Coach Samantha Sheldon:</h4> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":4} --> <h4 class="wp-block-heading">1. How are you feeling about the postseason and going into the state tournament?</h4> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Every practice is bringing us more and more confidence as we prepare to compete at the tournament. The girls have played strong competition all season, and that experience is going to be something we can lean into when adversity inevitably shows up. We played a tough Glenwood team in the regional final and we were down 17-21 and then 21-24 before our girls battled back to take the set 27-25. It was truly pure, gutsy, team play. If we can replicate that this week, no matter the outcome, we can be proud of ourselves.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":4} --> <h4 class="wp-block-heading">2. What has your team done well this season that's gotten them to this point?</h4> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Our practices have been our biggest asset. All 15 girls that we roster have competed HARD every single day, for every single point. With that, their volleyball IQ has grown immensely, which shows up with our defense, blocking, and ball control. We as coaches, rarely have to put points on drills because they truly want to win each rally or touch. They work together to work through whatever we throw at them in practice, which has really bonded everyone. Yhe girls are so bought into one another that individual success doesn't matter.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":4} --> <h4 class="wp-block-heading">3. What is your main focus heading into state?</h4> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>We've been scouting and prepping for who we're going to see while also adapting to what we've been doing to give us some new looks. We want our girls' minds and bodies in the right place, and we're staying disciplined in our training phases to ensure they feel ready to perform.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":4} --> <h4 class="wp-block-heading">4. Is there a different team that you've enjoyed watching this season and why?</h4> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>It's always going to be who we play next. We've really enjoyed learning and trying to figure out our opponents before we go to play them. It has been really fun to sit with the girls between matches or in film sessions and hear them start to talk more and more like us coaches do. They ask great questions and are so aware of the strategy that we need to use to try and win a match.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":4} --> <h4 class="wp-block-heading">5. Who was your favorite team to play this season and why?</h4> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Our match against the solid Bishop Heelan team at the Southeast Polk tournament was a big turning point for us. As coaches, we felt the girls truly lean into one another. What one player struggles with, a teammate's strength was able to compensate for. It demonstrated to everyone that the outcome went our way because we were successful in how we wanted to play. That match really helped us to start to find our collective identity.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":4} --> <h4 class="wp-block-heading">6. If you could shout out one player from your team, who would it be and why?</h4> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>This is kind of impossible to do since each of them plays such a vital role on our team.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><a href="https://prepdig.com/player/maddy-klever-2/" data-type="players" data-id="835340">[player_tooltip player_id='835340' first='Maddy' last='Klever']</a> is a shotty hitter that can also drop a hammer at any moment. Her off-blocker defense is os strong and allows us to transition with control. Jacinda Nemmers has grown so much in her serve receive as our libero and is the motor behind our out-of-system offense. She plays with intensity and does a great job leading our defense. [player_tooltip player_id='939175' first='Claire' last='Riker'] has been a consistent server and setter. She understands how to get her attackers a good matchup and has no fear in commanding our offense. Frankie Hunter may be a "small" middle on paper, but her ability to move laterally and jump with control makes her an incredible asset to our front line of defense. Her control allows her to get touches on balls that no one else can. Nora Mathes has been such a strong defender and serve receiver because she is always balanced. She also has the ability to hit such a small target when she goes back to serve that, despite her being a ds, we think of her equally as an attacker when she serves. Aylee Ihle has ice in her veins. She has an amazing serve that we can use whenever we want. She backs that serve up with the versatility to play defense anywhere and even step in to set when needed. [player_tooltip player_id='493616' first='Jaiden' last='Uhl'] is so strong. Her consistency in blocking and attacking gives us great balance. The way she throws the ball is so effective. It is just special and truly one of a kind. Jaslyn Rasmussen is our floor captain and leader on the court. She drives our competitive edge as her game is multifaceted and dependable. When there is any type of high-stakes circumstance, she is going to not only rise herself but also make sure everyone else takes a step up as well. Reese Wagner jumps out of the gym and provides a strong front line to our defense. She is able to pass and play either pin, which allows us flexibility in our lineup. She responds to adversity with such a great mindset that it helps everyone move on. Lydia Hanson is a spark. She is our Libero who goes big in her service placement and takes pride in attacking opponents' serve receive. She moves with passion in defense and is willing to sacrifice her body to make big plays. Peyton Dirks takes such pride in her blocking. She takes so much space away from attackers and puts pressure on them in a way that makes opponents swing uncharacteristically. She has grown a ton in her offense and makes herself available even when you don't expect it. Avery Ihle is one of the best at reading attackers and servers. She sees the game so well and is always in great position. She challenges each of our hitters every day to put their best forward. Reese White has the ability to make every player on the team smile. She also has the ability to come in and pressure teams with her serve. Reese has a very well-rounded skill set, and while she is a setter, it's easy to trust her ball control in any type of contact. Sophia Bouchard is an athlete. She is able to move and get to challenging balls and give her hitters good looks. She has a natural ability to read attackers, which helps her be a strong defender as well. Ellie Albertson understands how to run routes as a middle to set up the zone that she wants to attack. Her blocking has also made her a strong asset for our defense, and I really believe she is just scratching the surface of her potential.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list {"ordered":true,"start":7} --> <ol start="7" class="wp-block-list"></ol> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":4} --> <h4 class="wp-block-heading">7. If you could shout out one player from another team, who would it be and why?</h4> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["730419"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6ae53215ea885"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">"[player_tooltip player_id='730419' first='Hailey' last='Wiederin'] is something special. I'm a little biased from coaching her older sisters when I was at Ankeny as an assistant, but she is so well-rounded. I remember her being at her sisters' matches, in the halls, with a volleyball, getting touches against a wall or anyone who was willing to play with her. She just truly loves the game and it shows."</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":4} --> <h4 class="wp-block-heading">8. What makes this group so special, and what is your favorite thing about this team?</h4> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>If the theme hasn't been picked up yet, these girls play HARD for each other. As coaches, we are so incredibly proud of their growth, not just as players, but as people. They understand what it truly means to be selfless and take on adversity with one another.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">3A</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">MOC-Floyd Valley- Coached by Kate Boersma</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":4} --> <h4 class="wp-block-heading">Current Record: 31-7</h4> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":4} --> <h4 class="wp-block-heading">Talking with Head Coach Kate Boersma:</h4> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":4} --> <h4 class="wp-block-heading">1. How are you feeling about the postseason and going into the state tournament?</h4> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>I am just so excited for the girls to have this experience. We have worked so incredibly hard and have come so far after last year. This group has brought true joy that playing volleyball as a team can bring you. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":4} --> <h4 class="wp-block-heading">2. What has your team done well this season that's gotten them to this point?</h4> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>I think the intentionality of doing the little things well and challenging each other to get better every day is something this group truly excels at. They don't just go through the motions of our daily reps, they focused on building a good foundation of volleyball skills while also forcing the people around them to elevate their play.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":4} --> <h4 class="wp-block-heading">3. What is your main focus heading into state?</h4> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>We are just going to focus on one game at a time and one point at a time while enjoying the experience with the people around them. They have truly earned this privilege and I want them to enjoy every minute of it.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":4} --> <h4 class="wp-block-heading">4. Is there a different team that you've enjoyed watching this season and why?</h4> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>My team will always be my favorite team. They are gritty and mentally tough. They hold each other to high standards and have the most fun on and off the court. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":4} --> <h4 class="wp-block-heading">5. Who was your favorite team to play this season and why?</h4> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>I don't know if my girls would agree with me on this one, but I'd have to say Western.... they set a high standard and push us to have to play our best. There have been years where I think my girls have thought we couldn't compete with them, but this group wants it and knows they can battle!</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":4} --> <h4 class="wp-block-heading">6. If you could shout out one player from your team, who would it be and why?</h4> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>I seriously could never pick one, I could shout out something unique and phenomenal about each one. My seniors have been truly amazing this year.... they have stepped up and lead our underclassmen beautifully and you could tell they truly wanted to help them succeed. Our juniors bring the vibe every time they step into a gym. Our bench has such a good time and sets the tone for the court. I am thankful for each and every one of them in their own way and our team wouldn't be complete without them all.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":4} --> <h4 class="wp-block-heading">7. If you could shout out one player from another team, who would it be and why?</h4> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>I think it would have to be Nailea Lopez from [program_tooltip program_id='428931' first='Storm' last=''] Lake. She was so impressive because the game was not going well for them but she kept a great attitude, kept giving everything she had, and didn't shy away from everything we were throwing her way. She smiled, got back up, and kept working! It can be very easy to get chippy with your teammates at times and quit in those situations, but she did not. This is an attitude I will always appreciate as a coach.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":4} --> <h4 class="wp-block-heading">8. What makes this group so special, and what is your favorite thing about this team?</h4> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Again- this group is so unique in the fact that they all know their roles and are truly proud of each other and their successes. Every single one of them knows what it takes to bring success to our program. They love celebrating each other, they can loving poke fun, and they never let jealousy creep in and steal the joy. They are fiercely competitive and force each other to get better every day.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Dike-New Hartford- Coached by Diana Harms</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":4} --> <h4 class="wp-block-heading">Current Record: 35-10</h4> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":4} --> <h4 class="wp-block-heading">Talking with Head Coach Diane Harms:</h4> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":4} --> <h4 class="wp-block-heading">1. How are you feeling about the postseason and going into the state tournament?</h4> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>We are very honored and excited to participate in the 2026 state volleyball tournament.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":4} --> <h4 class="wp-block-heading">2. What has your team done well this season that's gotten them to this point?</h4> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>They have done well with working together and playing hard all throughout the season. They have remained consistently aggressive and never let their foot off the pedal.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":4} --> <h4 class="wp-block-heading">3. What is your main focus heading into state?</h4> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>We really want to enjoy the experience and the environment. We wont to focus on just relaxing and playing our game.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":4} --> <h4 class="wp-block-heading">4. Is there a team that you've enjoyed watching this season, and why?</h4> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>I have enjoyed watching North Tama play because they are a solid group of girls and I am good friends with the head coach.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":4} --> <h4 class="wp-block-heading">5. Who was your favorite team to play this season and why?</h4> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>We enjoy playing every team because we are big on playing and being in the moment.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":4} --> <h4 class="wp-block-heading">6. If you could shout out one player from your team, who would it be and why?</h4> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>I don't know if I could highlight just one player because each and every one of our girls plays a key role in our success as a team and a program.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":4} --> <h4 class="wp-block-heading">7. If you could shout out one player from another team, who would it be and why?</h4> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><a href="https://prepdig.com/player/hadassah-smith/" data-type="players" data-id="781517">[player_tooltip player_id='781517' first='Hadassah' last='Smith']</a> from Cedar Falls. Although we have not gotten the chance to play them, every times I've seen her play she has just be so dynamic.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":4} --> <h4 class="wp-block-heading">8. What makes this group so special, and what is your favorite thing about this team?</h4> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>They always play for each other, they trust each other, and how they've continued to encourage each other throughout the season has been really fun to watch. I also love being able to watch them compete to the best of their ability at the East vs West Showdown, the NICL Conference Tournament, through post season, and now I get to see how they compete on the big stage.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Solon- Coached by Ruben Galvan</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":4} --> <h4 class="wp-block-heading">Current Record: 38-7</h4> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":4} --> <h4 class="wp-block-heading">Talking with Head Coach Ruben Galvan:</h4> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":4} --> <h4 class="wp-block-heading">1. How are you feeling about the postseason and going into the state tournament?</h4> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>The team is feeling well prepared for the state tournament. Our regular season schedule has done a good job preparing us to compete with the best in the state.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":4} --> <h4 class="wp-block-heading">2. What has your team done well this season that's gotten them to this point?</h4> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>The team has been playing exceptionally well together and they are holding each other accountable at each and every practice and match.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":4} --> <h4 class="wp-block-heading">3. What is your main focus heading into state?</h4> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Our main focus is to keep doing the same things we've done to get ourselves to this point. Playing as a team and instilling confidence in one another.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":4} --> <h4 class="wp-block-heading">4. Is there a team that you've enjoyed watching this season, and why?</h4> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>I haven't followed many teams outside of the ones we've played but I've enjoyed all of our matchups and the competition that each team brought to us.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":4} --> <h4 class="wp-block-heading">5. Who was your favorite team to play this season and why?</h4> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>I would say every team that has beaten us so far this season. We have learned so much from each loss and we have become a much better team because of it. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":4} --> <h4 class="wp-block-heading">6. If you could shout out one player from your team, who would it be and why?</h4> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>I would have to shout out the seniors on the team. They have done a great job of staying focused all season long and have been holding everyone accountable and pushing everyone to do their best.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":4} --> <h4 class="wp-block-heading">7. If you could shout out one player from another team, who would it be and why?</h4> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>There have been so many talented athletes that we've faced this season who have put up good fights. Every athlete across the nets pushes us to do better so I'm going to say every athlete that we've competed against.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":4} --> <h4 class="wp-block-heading">8. What makes this group so special, and what is your favorite thing about this team?</h4> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>The team is very coachable and they're always willing to put in the work to improve not only as individuals, but as a team.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Wilton- Coached by Brenda Grunder</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":4} --> <h4 class="wp-block-heading">Current Record: 36-4</h4> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":4} --> <h4 class="wp-block-heading">Talking with Head Coach Brenda Grunder:</h4> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":4} --> <h4 class="wp-block-heading">1. How are you feeling about the postseason and going into the state tournament?</h4> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>I am so proud of this team and where we are. We have continued to grow throughout the year, expanding and improving our skills. We have strong fundamentals, high volleyball IQ, and a team chemistry that is really going to help us this week.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":4} --> <h4 class="wp-block-heading">2. What has your team done well this season that's gotten them to this point?</h4> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Our overall ball control as well as our tough and gritty defense are two things that I am incredibly proud of.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":4} --> <h4 class="wp-block-heading">3. What is your main focus heading into state?</h4> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>We feel we will rely heavily on our ball control, serve receive, and the ability to spread the ball around and mix up our shots.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":4} --> <h4 class="wp-block-heading">4. Who was your favorite team to play this season and why?</h4> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>I think I would have to say Mount Vernon. I have had so much respect for that program throughout all the years, and I knew they would be well-coached and disciplined when we played them in the regionals finals. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":4} --> <h4 class="wp-block-heading">5. If you could shout out one player from your team, who would it be and why?</h4> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>I couldn't just pick one. I am so incredibly proud of all of them- we talk about how important projecting confidence is as well as an appreciation of each other. They support one another and have always had these common goals. Our shirts say " whatever it takes" and "for my team", and that's exactly what they've bought into all season long.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":4} --> <h4 class="wp-block-heading">6. What makes this group so special, and what is your favorite thing about this team?</h4> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>My favorite part is watching them laugh with each other. They seem to really enjoy each others company and all share a true love and passion for the game. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph -->