Lennox Orioles Soar Into 2025–26 Season With Championship Vision

<a href="https://prepdig.com/subscribe/">Subscribe</a> to Prep Dig using discount code digdakotas30   Follow on Instagram@prepdigdakotas   The [program_tooltip program_id='428679' first='Lennox' last='Orioles'] have wasted no time in making their mark on the 2025–26 volleyball season. Undefeated through the first few weeks, this squad is already proving they have the tools, the depth, and the mindset to chase the ultimate goal: a trip to the state tournament and a shot at the championship.   What sets this team apart isn't just talent—it's a blend of leadership, work ethic, and a culture built by head coach Vanessa Gabel and her staff. Over the past few years, the Orioles have developed into a program that expects to compete at the highest level. With their trademark defensive intensity and balanced offensive firepower, Lennox looks every bit the contender this fall.   <hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity" />   <h3 class="wp-block-heading">The Captains Driving the Team</h3>   🛡️ [player_tooltip player_id='829500' first='Andie' last='Peters'] – Captain & Libero Every successful team starts with a rock in the back row, and for Lennox, that rock is senior libero [player_tooltip player_id='829500' first='Andie' last='Peters']. As team captain, she's the emotional anchor, but her skill set is just as impactful. Peters reads attackers with precision, positioning herself early to dig up hard-driven balls and control the first contact. Her platform is consistent, delivering high-quality passes that allow her setters to run tempo. Add in her leadership—commanding the defense, keeping teammates locked in, and never letting a ball hit the floor without effort—and Peters is the glue of this squad. College-level programs will notice her blend of IQ, communication, and grit.   ⚡ [player_tooltip player_id='810315' first='Addison' last='Martz'] – Captain, Right Side/Middle Attacker Versatility defines [player_tooltip player_id='810315' first='Addison' last='Martz'], another senior captain who can play both the right side and middle. Martz brings a powerful swing that terminates high sets out of system, while also giving her team a strong blocking presence. She excels at closing seams, reading setters, and shutting down pin hitters with disciplined hands. Offensively, her quick tempo attacks through the middle keep defenses guessing, while her ability to swing confidently on the right makes her a dual threat. Martz's leadership and flexibility make her invaluable—the kind of player who elevates a roster by filling whatever role her team needs.   🌟 [player_tooltip player_id='753570' first='Libby' last='Kranz'] – Captain & Sophomore Outside Hitter Still just a sophomore, [player_tooltip player_id='753570' first='Libby' last='Kranz'] has already established herself as one of the premier young outsides in South Dakota. As captain, her maturity shines through, and on the court, she is a true six-rotation weapon. Kranz brings explosive arm speed, able to hit heavy cross-court but also smart enough to tool blocks or swing line when needed. She's fearless in high-pressure moments, the go-to option when the Orioles need a kill. What sets her apart is her all-around game—passing with composure, digging with determination, and serving tough. With her athleticism, competitive fire, and leadership at such a young age, Kranz is a name college recruiters already have circled.   <hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity" />   <h3 class="wp-block-heading">The Supporting Cast Elevating the Floor</h3>   💥 [player_tooltip player_id='807212' first='Rylee' last='Hedin'] – Outside Hitter Hedin adds balance to Lennox's attack with her steady presence on the pin. She's a reliable outlet in transition, finding ways to score even against well-formed blocks. Her ability to keep rallies alive with back-row defense and cover makes her a critical piece of the rotation. Hedin's energy on the court lifts her teammates, and she's quickly showing she can be trusted in big moments.   🛑 [player_tooltip player_id='738115' first='Sydney' last='Johnson'] – Middle Blocker/Server Stepping into a larger role this season, [player_tooltip player_id='738115' first='Sydney' last='Johnson'] is making her presence known. As a middle, she uses strong footwork and timing to close blocks, creating a wall at the net. What's impressed early this season is her service game—Johnson delivers aggressive, well-placed serves that put opponents on their heels and create scoring runs. That ability to contribute both at the net and behind the line makes her a dual threat for Lennox.   🔥 Mallorie Bittner – Middle Blocker Bittner is a physical force in the middle. She brings size, strength, and an attacking presence that allows Lennox to run a balanced offense. Her quick attacks off the setter's hands challenge defenses to stay honest, and her ability to seal blocks adds a layer of toughness to the front row. As she continues to refine her footwork and timing, Bittner is showing she can dominate in the heart of the net.   🚀 [player_tooltip player_id='833222' first='Jersie' last='Hostetler'] – Outside Hitter Hostetler has been one of the biggest surprises of the early season, bursting onto the scene with confidence. Her athleticism allows her to swing high and hard, challenging blockers to match her elevation. She's developing a versatile toolbox of shots, which makes her hard to predict. Combined with her willingness to scrap for balls in the back row, Hostetler is emerging as another reliable six-rotation option—adding to Lennox's already dangerous arsenal.   <hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity" />   <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Coaching Excellence: Building a Winning Culture</h3>   Behind every great team is a great staff, and Lennox has built one of the strongest in the region. Head Coach Vanessa Gabel, with years of experience across multiple levels, has instilled a culture of accountability and belief. She demands discipline in the fundamentals—clean first contacts, aggressive serving, and relentless defense—while empowering players to take ownership and play with passion.   Her coaching staff complements her leadership, focusing on skill development and player growth at every level of the program. Together, they've created an environment where players buy in, compete hard, and dream big. That culture is evident every time the Orioles take the floor.   <hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity" />   <h3 class="wp-block-heading">The Bigger Picture</h3>   This year's Lennox squad isn't just trying to win games—they're chasing history. They've started the season undefeated, but the bigger goal is clear: a run to the state championship. With experienced captains, emerging underclassmen, and a coaching staff that knows how to get the best out of their roster, the Orioles have all the ingredients to make that dream a reality.   For the players, it's more than volleyball. It's about pride in their school, representing their community, and pushing each other to reach new heights. For the fans, it's the promise of something special.   And if the start of this season is any indication, Lennox is ready to make plenty of noise in 2025–26.   <hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity" />   <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Thank you to all my readers for making this journey possible. My goal has always been simple—to shine a light on athletes at every level, from Division I to NAIA, and give them a platform to keep chasing their love for the game. Every player deserves a shot, and I'm honored to help tell their stories.</h2>   <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Please help us continue to grow this positive platform for players by spreading the word and encouraging your friends to subscribe at <a href="https://prepdig.com/">PrepDig.com.</a> With your support, we can create unforgettable memories and experiences!</h2>   This journey is created by the village—athletes, coaches, families, and subscribers.   Thank you for making it all possible! ~ Theresa Hickman   Follow on Instagram@prepdigdakotas

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