The perfect journey is complete…again! Not only has Ellinwood repeated as the Class 2A champion, but the Eagles didn’t lose a match during either of those two triumphs. So, sophomores like Stickney still don’t know what it’s like to lose a match at the varsity level. Stickney is one of several “change-up” attackers in the Ellinwood frontcourt, as she can swing off two feet on the right side or in front of the setter. Her native position has been at middle blocker, but don’t overlook Stickney’s positional adaptability. We’ll see more of that versatility as the Eagles bring back many of their stars for another run in 2027.

Okay, we have one more visit with last year’s postseason royalty. If there’s any team that left no doubt about its championship worthiness, it was that 47-0 Ellinwood squad. The team is back to its undefeated ways in 2026, and Stickney has been in the middle of it all. She boasts an exceptional hitting percentage near 0.400 and has led the Eagles’ overall block tally. Stickney works hard to make herself available in transition, and her large hitting window makes her an ideal target under any circumstances. It’s been plug-and-play for this new face in the Ellinwood lineup.