Class 2 Preseason Rankings 1-5

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>As the Class 2 volleyball season begins, the top five teams are ready to compete. St. Vincent Indians aim to build on last season's strong finish, while Miller Cardinals and Adrian Blackhawks seek a final-four appearance with their talented rosters. Mid-Buchanan and Hermann also bring deep histories and skilled players, promising a competitive season with exciting matchups<strong></strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list {"ordered":true,"start":5} --> <ol start="5" class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong>Mid-Buchanan Dragons (24-10-2)</strong></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ol> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>The Dragons are poised for a promising season, with youth playing a significant role in their lineup. Key returning players include 2028 talents <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='698690' first='Tatum' last='Moss']</strong> and <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='809816' first='Myla' last='Flinn']</strong>, alongside 2027 players <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='811576' first='Bailey' last='Coman'], [player_tooltip player_id='485596' first='Camryn' last='Atha']</strong>, and <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='725066' first='Myia' last='Dillman']</strong>. However, a crucial challenge lies in finding a solid replacement for their setter.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list {"ordered":true,"start":4} --> <ol start="4" class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong>Hermann Bearcats (20-17)</strong></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ol> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>The Hermann Bearcats have dominated Class 2 since the early '80s, boasting 15 state titles. With a strong roster returning this year, including <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='702778' first='Ashlyn' last='Hughes'], Jillian Fredrick</strong>, and <strong>Kealie Lane</strong> at the net, along with <strong>Jaelee Kahler</strong> facilitating assists, they have the potential for another deep playoff run. I never bet against the Bearcats!</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list {"ordered":true,"start":3} --> <ol start="3" class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong>Adrian Blackhawks (23-9-1)</strong></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ol> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>If they can maintain their health throughout the season, the Adrian Blackhawks could emerge as the most formidable team in Class 2. With a combined total of 754 kills from <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='835010' first='Lizzie' last='Clifton']</strong> and <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='237005' first='Olivia' last='Engeman']</strong>, paired with one of the top setters in 2027, <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='635415' first='Grace' last='Engeman']</strong>, their sights are set on a final-four berth. This season presents a clearer path to that goal.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list {"ordered":true,"start":2} --> <ol start="2" class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong>Miller Cardinals (29-7-2)</strong></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ol> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>The Miller Cardinals return a talented quartet of 2026 players: <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='490143' first='Camden' last='Stockton'], [player_tooltip player_id='829756' first='Ashlynn' last='Helton'], [player_tooltip player_id='809838' first='Rachel' last='Nunez']</strong>, and <strong>Loghann Leivan</strong>. Together, they amassed impressive stats last season, including 1,117 kills, 119 blocks, 1,622 digs, and 1,112 assists. The Cardinals are determined to make another final-four appearance with this skilled group.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list {"ordered":true,"start":1} --> <ol start="1" class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong>St. Vincent Indians (23-9-5)</strong></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ol> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Last year's strategic transfers propelled St. Vincent to a third-place finish, and this season looks to build on that success with even greater potential. The dynamic sister duo of <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='225325' first='Kate' last='Rubel']</strong> and <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='225326' first='Brie' last='Rubel']</strong> is poised to lead the Indians in their quest for a state title. With a strong core group returning, the Indians are set to be a formidable opponent. Additionally, a more challenging schedule should provide valuable experience and pay dividends as they push for a title.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph -->