Stanton wins Tekamah-Herman Triangular; defeats Wayne on road

The Stanton Volleyball Team won the Tekamah-Herman Triangular Tuesday night, sweeping both Tekamah-Herman and Oakland-Craig 2-0. The Mustangs then turned around and won 3-1 at Wayne Thursday night.

In the Stanton/Tekamah-Herman match, the Mustangs won set one 25-12 and set two 25-15.

Hannah Heppner paced the Mustangs with 6 kills while Bree Burtwhistle had 5. Jaiden Hartl totaled 7 digs while Makenna Espinoza registered 13 set assists.

In the Oakland-Craig/Stanton match, the Mustangs took set one 25-14, and set two 25-11.

Jessie Brandl paced Stanton with 8 kills. Hartl managed 9 digs while Burtwhistle and Espinoza dished out 13 and 10 set assists, respectively.

The Mustangs won set one 25-12, dropped set two 25-23, won set three 25-20, and set four 25-17 against the Blue Devils.

Brandl notched 22 kills and 24 digs while Heppner added 17 kills. Burtwhistle contributed 14 kills, 13 digs, and 32 set assists. Liz Christensen added 7 kills and 7 digs while Hartl chipped in 30 digs. Espinoza compiled 9 digs and 23 set assists.

Stanton really has it going right now. The Mustangs have continued to play great and dominant Volleyball.

Stanton (16-2) hosts Howells-Dodge (10-5) Tuesday night.

The Jaguars beat Oakland-Craig 3-0 at home Thursday night.

Howells-Dodge is young and full of talent, but the Mustangs are experienced and full of talent.

I fully expect the Jaguars to come out and compete hard and well, but when it's all said and done I think Stanton will find a way to win.

The Mustangs are very tough when Brandl, Burtwhistle, Heppner, and Christensen all contribute in the kills department.

Stanton played a complete match against Wayne, and really handled things with a business like attitude I thought.

The Mustangs have to enjoy their weekend off, but get ready to get back at things in practice on Monday.

Stanton has to have a good practice on Monday, and be locked in and focused.

The Mustangs have to keep playing at the level they've been playing at, but work on playing even better.

The East Husker Conference Tournament and a Triangular featuring North Bend Central will be here before we know it so Stanton has to fine tune anything they've been struggling with, and be ready to go for that tournament and the Tigers.

I don't see anything wrong with the way the Mustangs have been playing though so perhaps there's nothing to fix or work on.

Regardless of if there is or not, Stanton just has to keep playing their game and doing what they've been doing.

The Mustangs have to figure they've got a really good shot to win another state championship, and have to visualize what it would be like to get back to Devaney.

Stanton has other business to take care of first, but state and winning another state title has to be in the back of the Mustangs' minds.

Emerson-Hubbard 1-6 in last 7 matches

The Emerson-Hubbard Volleyball team is 1-6 in their last 7 matches, losing 2-0 to BRLD, but beating Winnebago 2-1 at their own Triangular last Thursday night, falling 2-0 to Ponca, Wynot, and Allen at the Ponca Invite on Saturday, and dropping matches at the Neligh-Oakdale Triangular to Pender, 2-1, and the host Warriors, 2-0, Thursday night.

The Pirates fell 25-17 in set one, and 25-15 in set two to the Wolverines.

Emerson-Hubbard lost 25-22 in set one to Winnebago, and dropped set two 25-19.

Ponca downed the Pirates 25-9 in the first set, and 25-22 in the second set.

The Eagles topped Emerson-Hubbard 25-12 in set one, and 25-18 in set two.

The Blue Devils knocked off the Pirates 25-21 in the first set, and 25-5 in the second set.

The Pirates claimed set one from the Pendragons 25-15, but Pender won sets two and three 25-16.

Neligh-Oakdale grabbed the first set from Emerson-Hubbard, 30-28, and won the second set 25-16.

The Pirates competed well in a set against Wynot, Ponca, and Neligh-Oakdale, and even Winnebago, but didn't have quite enough to win a set, let alone the match.

Emerson-Hubbard (2-14) takes on Wynot (7-3) and Walthill (8-5) at the Wynot Triangular Tuesday night.

The Blue Devils won 3-0 at home over Homer Thursday night while the Blujays lost 3-0 at home to Allen Thursday night.

I think the Pirates have a legit shot to beat Walthill, and might even be able to challenge Wynot.

Winnebago has beat the Blujays three times so that has to be encouraging for Emerson-Hubbard.

The Pirates gave the Blue Devils a run for their money in the first set when the two teams played on Saturday, and I think that's something that has to give Emerson-Hubbard a boost of confidence.

It's all about the Pirates playing consistent, tough Volleyball night in and night out.

Emerson-Hubbard has to challenge teams by playing them tougher in more than just one set.

The Pirates have to take a set from a Wynot or a Ponca, and make even more strides than they already have.

Emerson-Hubbard has taken that first step and challenged tough teams in a set, and kept things close for a set. Now it's a matter of continuing to climb the ladder and take a set from one of these teams.

Even if the Pirates can't win against Wynot on Tuesday, if they can at least take a set, that could be viewed as progress, in my opinion.

A win over Walthill is a must. That's a match Emerson-Hubbard absolutely must have.

The Pirates have a chance to win some matches these next couple of weeks, in my opinion, and could very well get on track.

I think Emerson-Hubbard has made progress over the last week or so, and now it's a matter of making more progress and playing even better.

The Pirates have to go out there and play with mental and physical toughness, attitude, grit, determination, passion, tenacity, and fire.

Emerson-Hubbard has to be intense, and must be ready to go toe to toe with both teams Tuesday night.

Pender 1-3 in last four matches

The Pender Volleyball Team is 1-3 in their last three matches, losing 3-0 at Scribner-Snyder Monday night, 3-0 at home to Humphrey/Lindsay Holy Family Tuesday night, and 2-0 to Neligh-Oakdale at the Neligh-Oakdale Triangular Thursday night, but beating Emerson-Hubbard 2-1 at the Triangular.

The Trojans downed the Pendragons 25-15 in set one, 25-19 in set two, and 25-13 in set three.

The Bulldogs topped Pender 25-21 in the first set, and 25-18 in sets two and three.

The Pirates claimed set one from the Pendragons 25-15, but Pender won sets two and three 25-16.

The Warriors beat the Pendragons 25-14 in the first set, and 27-25 in the second set.

This week, Pender played at about the same level that they've played at all season I would say.

The Pendragons (4-11) take part in the Clarkson/Leigh Tournament on Saturday.

Very tough tournament, and I'm not 100% sure who Pender plays first.

Other teams in the tournament include the host Patriots, Howells-Dodge, BRLD, Cross County, David City Aquinas, BRLD, and Humphrey/Lindsay Holy Family.

This tournament will definitely test the Pendragons' physical shape, and challenge Pender.

The Pendragons have to bring something extra. Play with some sort of edge that puts them over the top.

Right now Pender is just trotting along at the same pace they have all season. But at some point the Pendragons have to rise up and raise their level of play.

Why not Saturday? Now is as good a time as any for Pender to get out of their lull and play great Volleyball.

The Pendragons have to rise up and play up to their competition.

Pender has to go out there and have fun, and get things going. Things go a lot better and people are in much better moods when a team wins, and so the Pendragons have to go out there and make it happen.

Even if Pender doesn't do much winning on Saturday, if they can be more competitive in sets, it could lead to something bigger down the road, and more success at a later time, in my opinion.

These girls have to keep believing, and must stay positive and focused at all times, because at any time their luck and fortunes could change.

I feel that good things can definitely come the Pendragons' way eventually, and perhaps the start of something great will unravel and unfold on Saturday.

Pender just has to believe in themselves and trust the process, and go make it happen. The Pendragons have to go out there and take the bull by the horns.

Any team can be successful if they work hard at and persevere from adversity, and Pender is certainly capable of being that way yet this year.

GACC swept at Bishop Neumann and Hartington Cedar Catholic

The GACC Volleyball team lost to a couple of tough foes this week, losing 3-0 at Wahoo Neumann Tuesday night, and at Hartington Cedar Catholic Thursday night.

The Cavaliers won set one 25-13, set two 25-12, and set three 25-11.

Hanna Knobbe notched 7 digs while Kali Stratman totaled 9 set assists.

The Trojans took sets one and three 25-10, and set two 25-17.

Riley Throener had 7 kills while Stratman registered 16 set assists.

It was definitely tough sledding for the Bluejays this week. Back to the drawing board for GACC.

The Bluejays (5-9) face Battle Creek (11-6) on the road Tuesday night.

The Braves went 1-1 at their own Triangular Thursday night, beating Boone Central/Newman Grove 2-0, but losing 2-0 to Elgin Public/Pope John 2-0.

This is a winnable match for GACC. Battle Creek was also swept by Wahoo Neumann and Hartington Cedar Catholic when they played the two teams.

The Bluejays simply need more offensive production. Someone has to help out Throener, and more girls need to increase their stat totals.

GACC has to use this time off to find themselves, and figure something out to get on track.

The Bluejays need to figure something out soon to avoid letting this season get away from them.

GACC started out the year 3-2, but has since lost 7 out of their last 9.

This team has to do some soul searching, and a leader must emerge.

This Bluejay team has to rediscover the magic that past GACC teams have played with, and must start playing the way past Bluejay teams have.

Expectations are high at GACC, and so far the Bluejays have really struggled.

That's not to say GACC can't get things turned around though. There's still a lot of season left, and if there's a team that can right the ship, it is the Bluejays.

GACC has a tough road to hoe next week, but one thing is for sure...the Bluejays will be battle tested by the time the conference and subdistrict tournaments roll around.

GACC should be able to at least win 2 or their last 3 matches prior to the Mid-State Conference Tournament, but the Bluejays must have their sights set on bigger and better things, and doing more.

GACC has to continue to work hard and trust the process, and continue to learn and grow as Volleyball Players and young ladies.

This program has finished in the top 4 at State each of the last three years so one can never count the Bluejays out of anything.

Clarkson/Leigh wins Hampton Tournament; sweeps Logan View

The Clarkson/Leigh Volleyball team is playing outstanding Volleyball at the moment as the Patriots won the Hampton Tournament on Saturday, downing Deshler 2-1, the host Hawks, Red Cloud, and Mead 2-0 at the tournament, before sweeping Logan View 3-0 at home Tuesday night.

The Patriots defeated the Dragons 25-13 in the first set, and won the third set 25-14 after dropping the second set 27-25.

Hannah Kasik led the way with 9 kills and 10 digs while Sara McEvoy posted a team-high 14 digs. Halee Steffensmeier and Holly Kuhr totaled 11 each. Kaegan Held compiled 7 digs and 19 set assists.

Clarkson/Leigh topped Mead 25-23 in set one, and 25-15 in set two.

Kasik registered 7 kills and 9 digs while Steffensmeier and McEvoy recorded 11 and 8, respectively. Held dished out 13 set assists.

The Patriots defeated the Warriors 25-19 in the first set, and 25-17 in the second set.

Sydney Folken had a team-high 7 kills while Steffensmeier and Held registered 10 digs and 18 set assists, respectively.

Clarkson/Leigh knocked off the Hawks 25-21 in set one, and 25-17 in set two.

Kasik posted 7 kills while Steffensmeier and Held chipped in 12 digs and 13 set assists, respectively.

Head Coach Becky Schneider says if people didn't know about the Patriots prior to this tournament, they do now. "In the past, no one really knew about Clarkson-Leigh and teams have overlooked us, so for us to win that tournament was huge! It definitely gives us exposure! We knew going in it was going to be a tough day especially going up against Red Cloud who was undefeated, but we didn't let that dictate how we played. We talk a lot about consistency and discipline, and we definitely put that into play at this tournament!"

The Patriots won set one 25-6, set two 25-13, and set three 25-8 over Logan View.

Kasik recorded 12 kills while Folken managed 8. Brittney Urbanek notched 11 digs while Steffensmeier contributed 10. McEvoy dished out 27 set assists.

Schneider says the confidence her girls gained on Saturday carried over to Tuesday. "I think the weekend really helped the girls to realize that 'hey, we really can play sound volleyball', so it definitely speaks volumes about our focus and determination. Coming into the game, we talked about starting off with intensity and keeping that intensity from set to set, and we did exactly that! With past games, one of our weaknesses has been not carrying our momentum into the next set, so we were definitely focused and determined against Logan View!"

Clarkson/Leigh (12-3) hosts the Clarkson/Leigh Tournament on Saturday.

First up is Oakland-Craig (2-16), who lost 3-0 at Howells-Dodge Thursday night.

Schneider says her squad looks forward to the challenge of this tournament. "We are mostly excited about being seeded #1 for our home tournament and having a great opportunity to win this one as well!! With that being said, it is a tough tournament and the competition level will be high, so we just need to stay focused and continue to play the way we have been playing!"

Other teams in the tournament include Howells-Dodge, Humphrey/Lindsay Holy Family, Pender, David City Aquinas, Cross County, and BRLD.

It has to be flat out exciting for the Patriots to host this tournament on Saturday knowing how well they've performed this season.

Schneider says growing up, playing together, and knowing one another's tendencies have allowed her team to have the success they've had. "It's a combination of hard work and the dedication these girls have, but also maturity. These girls have been playing together for a few years now, so they are very comfortable with each other and trust each other on the court. They know the game a little bit more and they hold their own expectations as what they want to accomplish together."

Clarkson/Leigh has won 6 in a row and is rolling.

6 wins are over teams with winning records. Schneider says her team doesn't approach tough teams any differently than they do other teams."We do have a tough schedule, but we try to not let that get to us. Every time we step out onto the court, no matter who our opponent is, we want to get out there and just play our game."

Schneider adds her team has started to figure things out, but still has a ways to go before season's end. "As we are in the heart of our season, we have begun to play with more consistency and discipline, something we were missing early on. We are always looking to improve, so each game, win or lose, we try to take something from the game and learn from it. With a lot of season left, we still have more to learn!"

Kasik and Folken have been the team leaders on offense undoubtedly. Schneider says the duo is an integral part of the team. "We have a very well-rounded team, but these two have definitely stepped up their game and their consistency is really important to this team! They are both our top hitters and blockers, and they do a nice job of running the net. Expectations are high for them, so there is no room for error, and they need to continue to stay focused to be on top of their game!"

I look for the Patriots to continue their winning ways on Saturday and have another good tournament.

Can Clarkson/Leigh make it two tournament wins in a row? It's going to be very tough, but it is definitely possible.

These girls can achieve anything they put their minds to as far as I'm concerned.

Scribner-Snyder 4-3 in last 7 matches

The Scribner-Snyder Volleyball team is 4-3 in their last 7 matches, losing 3-0 at BRLD last Tuesday night, 3-1 at Humphrey/Lindsay Holy Family last Thursday night, and 2-0 to Ponca at the Scribner-Snyder Invite on Saturday, but beating Winnebago and St. Edward 2-0 on Saturday, Pender 3-0 at home Monday night, and Winside 3-2 at home Tuesday night.

The Wolverines won set one 25-12, set two 25-21, and set three 25-11.

Kaylee Boyle paced the Trojans with 20 digs while Kaylin Niewohner totaled 16. Rachel Lodl and Emily Lewin notched 10 and 8, respectively.

During warmups, Nicole Boyle, one of the starters for Scribner Snyder, turned an ankle. Head Coach Shelly Schulenberg says that left the team thin. "She rolled it during warmup. So we were without her the whole game. So that threw my first set lineup way out of alignment. My lineup was already in. So we had to make some adjustments with one of our subs. And that's how it goes sometimes. We were already without one starter tonight, and then we lost Nikki before the game even started. So our wind was kind of sunk before we even started."

I would say that injury set the tone for the rest of the night for the Trojans.

Scribner-Snyder took set one from the Bulldogs, 25-20, before losing set two 25-9, set three 25-10, and set four 25-23.

Kaylee Boyle registered 12 kills and 14 digs while Kaylin Niewohner notched 13 digs. Micah Risch totaled 10 digs.

The Trojans downed Winnebago 25-6 in the first set, and 25-20 in the second set.

Sidney Fletcher finished with 7 set assists.

Scribner-Snyder topped the Beavers 25-19 in set one, and 25-20 in set two.

Nicole Boyle finished with 7 set assists.

Ponca took the opening set 25-10, and the second set 25-22.

Kaylee Boyle had 7 digs.

The Trojans claimed set one 25-15, set two 25-19, and set three 25-13.

Kaylee Boyle finished with 9 digs while Niewohner added 8. Nicole Boyle and Emily Lewin chipped in 7 apiece. Nicole Boyle dished out 9 set assists while Fletcher totaled 7.

Scribner-Snyder took set one from the Wildcats 26-24, lost set two 26-24, won set three 25-19, lost set four 25-20, and won set five 15-5.

Kaylee Boyle registered 20 kills and 20 digs while Niewohner and Nicole Boyle notched 19 digs apiece. Emily Lewin posted 16 digs while Nicole Boyle recorded 22 set assists.

The Trojans have played very respectable Volleyball as of late. I've been very impressed with Scribner-Snyder's play.

The Trojans (8-6) travel to Mead (14-3) to take on the Raiders next Thursday night.

Mead beat Elmwood-Murdock 3-1 at home Thursday night.

The Raiders are a very good team, and have lost to some very solid teams so far this season.

One of those losses came against Clarkson/Leigh, who swept the Trojans 3-0 in Scribner on September 12th.

Perhaps Scribner-Snyder can take a page out of the Patriots' book when it comes to game planning and preparing for Mead.

The Trojans will have ample practice time as it's their only match of the week so Scribner-Snyder should be well rested and ready to go.

The Trojans have to sit back, relax, and enjoy their time off, but be ready to go when it's time.

I think Scribner-Snyder would just assume keep playing a bunch of matches together given how much they played in two weeks, but at the same time, I think having some time off is a good thing in terms of resting and nursing any nagging injuries that might be affecting this team.

I'm willing to bet Nicole Boyle's ankle will feel a whole lot better in a week than it does now.

That was an unfortunate injury. You see how valuable she is to the Trojans.

Scribner-Snyder is having a very respectable season, and the five set win over Winside was great. It appears the Trojans gutted things out and simply found a way to win.

Scribner-Snyder has to take some time and enjoy that win, but be ready to go and be focused during the next week of practice.

The Trojans have to come up with a good game plan for next Thursday night's match.

Slowing down the likes of June Johnson, Jayden Haag, and McKenna Holloway will be critical, in my opinion.

Johnson had 23 kills in Mead's win over Yutan Tuesday night.

She has to be contained for Scribner-Snyder to have any chance of winning, in my opinion.

BRLD on a roll

The BRLD Volleyball team has rolled lately, sweeping Scribner-Snyder 3-0 at home last Tuesday night, downing Emerson-Hubbard and Winnebago 2-0 at the Emerson-Hubbard Triangular last Thursday night, and Madison 2-0 and Howells-Dodge 2-1 at the Wisner-Pilger Double Triangular Tuesday night.

BRLD won set one 25-12, set two 25-21, and set three 25-11 over the Trojans.

Halle Wortman posted a match-high 10 kills for the Wolverines (7-10) while Vicki Gatzemeyer added 8 kills and 7 digs. Kelcee Bacon had 9 digs while Brandi Simonsen totaled 7. Tiahna Bonneau registered 19 set assists while Lauren Ahlers notched 10.

Head Coach Rebecca James says she was pleased with her team's 10 aces. "Yeah that was nice to see our servers step up and get some aces cause we work on serving every single day. And as far as our kills we've been pretty spread out as far as our kills have been."

The Wolverines topped the Pirates 25-17 in the first set, and 25-15 in the second set.

Gatzemeyer totaled 8 kills while Bacon had 7 digs. Bonneau added 8 set assists.

BRLD downed the Indians 25-16 in set one, and 25-10 in set two.

Gatzemeyer led the way with 7 kills while Bacon recorded 7 digs. Bonneau dished out 12 set assists.

The Wolverines upended the Dragons 25-10 in the first set, and 25-18 in the second set.

Bonneau paced BRLD with 10 digs while Bacon and Simonsen contributed 8 apiece. Gatzemeyer chipped in 7 while Ahlers compiled 7 set assists.

The Wolverines earned a 25-19 win in set one over the Jaguars. BRLD lost set two 25-23 before taking set three 25-20.

Gatzemeyer had 14 kills and 18 digs while Wortman posted 10 kills and 8 digs. Bacon registered 16 digs while Bonneau notched 15 digs and 16 set assists. Ahlers added 14 digs and 13 set assists with Simonsen contributing 12 digs.

BRLD has played great Volleyball as of late. There's nothing to complain about when it comes to the Wolverines' play as of late.

BRLD (11-10) takes part in the Clarkson/Leigh Tournament on Saturday.

I'm not sure who the Wolverines play first, but other teams in the tournament include Oakland-Craig, Howells-Dodge, Humphrey/Lindsay Holy Family, Pender, David City Aquinas, and Cross County.

The Wolverines figure to see some very good teams in this tournament, but I think it has a chance to be a successful day of Volleyball for BRLD.

I think the Wolverines have a chance to finish 1st, 2nd, or 3rd in this tournament.

If BRLD can continue to play the way they have lately then they will be a very tough out.

The Wolverines have to keep playing with the same intensity, focus, determination, sacrifice, and drive that's allowed them to win 5 in a row.

BRLD has definitely cranked up the intensity and gotten better production all the way around these last couple of weeks.

The Wolverines have to keep playing with the same attitude that's allowed them to go on this winning streak.

I don't know if what I said about BRLD stepping up their game has had any impact on this team or not, but it seems like the Wolverines turned the corner the moment I said other girls that hadn't been producing needed to step up and produce.

BRLD is playing great Volleyball right now, and needs to simply keep it up.

The Wolverines shouldn't change anything from how they've played over the last couple of weeks or so. If anything, BRLD has to continue to play with a lot of drive, heart, determination, grit, mental and physical toughness, pride, and passion.

The Wolverines have to be happy with how they've played lately, but can't be satisfied.

BRLD has to want more, and must continue to push and improve.

The Wolverines have to keep playing with the heart of a champion, and must continue to grind and work their tails off in every match.

BRLD has to be at their best on Saturday, and on top of their game so they can play well in all matches.

Winnebago 3-4 in last 7 matches

The Winnebago Volleyball team is 3-4 in their last 7 matches, falling 2-0 to BRLD and Emerson-Hubbard at the Emerson-Hubbard Triangular last Thursday night, and 2-0 to Elkhorn Valley and Scribner-Snyder at the Scribner-Snyder Invite on Saturday, and then beating St. Edward 2-0 on Saturday and Omaha Nation and Walthill 2-1 at the Winnebago Triangular Tuesday night.

The Wolverines downed the Indians 25-16 in set one, and 25-10 in set two.

The Pirates beat Winnebago 25-22 in the first set, and 25-19 in the second set.

The Indians topped the Beavers 27-25 in set one, and 25-21 in set two.

The Trojans won set one over Winnebago 25-6, and took set two 25-20.

The Falcons earned a 25-15 first set victory before winning the second set 25-10.

The Chiefs took set one from the Indians, 25-15, before Winnebago roared back to win set two 25-8, and set three 25-22.

The Blujays claimed the first set 25-13 before the Indians stormed back to win the second set 25-19, and the third set 25-23.

I think Winnebago has to be encouraged by how they've played lately. The Indians are on a bit of a roll.

Winnebago takes on Allen (6-10) and Whiting, IA at the Allen Triangular Tuesday night.

Allen went 1-2 at the Ponca Invite on Tuesday, beating Emerson-Hubbard 2-0, but falling 2-0 to Wynot and Ponca.

I don't know a whole lot about Whiting, IA, but Allen beat Winnebago 2-0 at a different Allen Triangular on September 12th.

I think the Indians caught the Eagles at a time when they were playing really well, and Winnebago was still sort of trying to find their way.

So I think this match has the potential to be different than the first one was, but I could also see Allen sweeping this one as well.

The Indians have won 2 or 3 in a row, but I feel the Eagles are better than Walthill, St. Edward, or Omaha Nation.

Winnebago lost 3-1 to the Chiefs earlier in the season, and then got redemption, so that's certainly possible in this match as well.

The Indians have to come out and play the way they have the last 2 or 3 matches.

Winnebago appears to be starting to find their way, and has made significant progress and strides over the course of the season, in my opinion.

The rest of the season sets up for the Indians to have success so the sky is the limit for Winnebago as far as I'm concerned.

These girls have to think and dream big, and must continue to do what they have been doing lately.

I'm not sure what's got into this Winnebago team lately, but they have stepped up their game and are playing better Volleyball.

The Indians have to keep it up, and keep taking steps forward.

Winnebago has to build off the things they've done well, and continue to move in a positive direction.

The Indians have to take this extra practice time to fine tune and hone their skills. If anything though I feel this break comes at a not so good time for Winnebago as the Indians were rolling.

Tekamah-Herman splits home Triangular

The Tekamah-Herman Volleyball team topped Oakland-Craig 2-0, but lost 2-0 to Stanton at their own Triangular Tuesday night.

In the Stanton/Tekamah-Herman match, the Mustangs won set one 25-12 and set two 25-15.

The Tigers were led by Marin Jetensky with 10 kills..

In the Tekamah-Herman/Oakland-Craig match, the Tigers defeated the Knights 25-15 in the first set, and 25-8 in the second set.

Jetensky had a match-high 12 kills for Tekamah-Herman.

I'm sure the Tigers would have liked to have beaten Stanton, but a win over rival Oakland-Craig is always a good thing.

Tekamah-Herman (11-6) takes part in the Raymond Central Invitational on Saturday.

This Invite figures to be challenging and tough for the Tigers, but Tekamah-Herman has represented themselves well at tournaments this year for the most part.

I feel the Tigers are a very good, solid ball club, but haven't been able to pick up that huge win. That big upset win that makes you go WOW!!

Tekamah-Herman has done a really nice job taking care of business against the teams they're supposed to beat though.

The Tigers have only had 2 or 3 hiccups.

So if Tekamah-Herman can continue to beat the teams they're supposed to, and upset a juggernaut, they could turn quite a few heads.

The Tigers have to keep getting great production from Jetensky. She really led Tekamah-Herman's offense Tuesday night.

The Tigers also have to get contributions from other players. Everyone that steps on the floor needs to contribute in some way.

I feel Tekamah-Herman could really benefit from stepping up their game.

The Tigers are already a good team, and have done a lot of nice things this year, but to take that next step and get beyond subdistricts and perhaps make state, it's going to take better play from Tekamah-Herman, in my opinion.

The Tigers have done very well this season, but I feel they can do even better.

It's one thing to be good, but it's another to be great.

So Tekamah-Herman has to want more, and has to have the drive and determination to do great and extraordinary things.

A step up in play would be a huge accomplishment for this team. The Tigers could definitely use it too with some tough matches and the East Husker Conference Tournament coming up.

All it takes is a little extra hustle, heart, work, and time spent in the gym.

Howells-Dodge goes 0-2 at Wisner-Pilger Double Triangular

The Howells-Dodge Volleyball team lost both matches they played in at the Wisner-Pilger Double Triangular Tuesday night, falling 2-1 to BRLD and 2-0 to the host Gators.

The Wolverines won set one 25-19 before the Jaguars took set two 25-23. BRLD won set three 25-20.

Jessi Brester finished with 12 kills while Erin Prusa had 10. Macey Kulhanek chipped in 16 digs while Taya VanLengen notched 13. Alyssa Coufal posted 8 digs and 13 set assists while Lexie Brester dished out 17 set assists.

Wisner-Pilger defeated Howells-Dodge 25-16 in the first set, and 25-17 in the second set.

VanLengen and Kulhanek notched 12 digs apiece while Coufal tallied 8 set assists.

It was another tough night for the Jaguars. Howells-Dodge just didn't play as well as they usually do for some reason.

The Jaguars (9-5) host Oakland-Craig (2-14) Thursday night in a match that can be heard on 107.9 the Bull.

The Knights lost 2-0 to Stanton and Tekamah-Herman at the Tekamah-Herman Triangular Tuesday night.

This is a match Howells-Dodge should win, and is a match that I feel can get the Jaguars back on track.

Howells-Dodge has the Clarkson/Leigh Tournament on Saturday, and needs to be ready to go and up to snuff for that tournament.

This match with the Knights is a must win for the Jaguars. I feel the match comes at a very good time for Howells-Dodge.

The Jaguars have struggled over the last week or so for whatever reason, but perhaps Howells-Dodge will get back on track Thursday night.

It wouldn't surprise me to see the Jaguars come out and sweep Oakland-Craig.

I could also see the Knights taking like the first set, or a set somewhere in the match, but I think Howells-Dodge will find a way to prevail in the end.

Oakland-Craig has really struggled this season, and is a very young team themselves, and I just don't know if the Knights have the talent or the horses to take down the mighty Jaguars.

Howells-Dodge has to come out and be ready to play though. The Jaguars can't expect Oakland-Craig to just roll over and hand the match to them.

Howells-Dodge has to take it from the Knights, and must go out there and play a great match Thursday night.

The Jaguars have to find a way to get fired up, and must find some will within.

Howells-Dodge has to play well offensively, and must find a way to hit and pass better.

The Jaguars have to find ways to manufacture points, and can't give Oakland-Craig easy points or opportunities at the net.

Howells-Dodge has to contest every hit and serve, and must play smart and well rounded fundamental Volleyball.

Listen to the match on 107.9 the Bull with Legendary Sports Director Tom McMahon beginning at 7:30 p.m.

Oakland-Craig goes 1-2 at Scribner-Snyder Invite; swept at Tekamah-Herman Triangular

The Oakland-Craig Volleyball Team lost 2-1 to Elkhorn Valley, and 2-0 to Ponca at the Scribner-Snyder Invite on Saturday, but beat St. Edward 2-0 at the Invite. The Knights fell 2-0 to Stanton and Tekamah-Herman at the Tekamah-Herman Triangular Tuesday night.

Oakland-Craig downed the Beavers 25-10 in set one, and 25-17 in set two.

The Falcons won set one 25-17 before the Knights took set two 25-22. Elkhorn Valley won set three 25-22.

The Indians took the first set from Oakland-Craig, 25-11, and won the second set 25-8.

In the Stanton match, the Mustangs took set one 25-14, and set two 25-11.

Natalia McNeill and Beth Moseman notched 3 kills apiece to lead the Knights.

In the Tekamah-Herman match, the Tigers defeated the Knights 25-15 in the first set, and 25-8 in the second set.

McNeill paced Oakland-Craig (2-14) with 8 kills.

I thought the Knights played really well against St. Edward, and well enough to beat the Falcons, but otherwise Oakland-Craig's struggles continued.

The Knights take on Howells-Dodge (9-5) in a match that can be heard on 107.9 the Bull Thursday night.

The Jaguars lost 2-1 to BRLD and 2-0 to Wisner-Pilger at the Wisner-Pilger Double Triangular Tuesday night.

Howells-Dodge has really stumbled in their last three matches, and I think this match is an opportunity for Oakland-Craig to do something and get back on track.

Both teams are very young, and when there's so much youth on both sides of the net, you just never know what is going to happen.

So the Knights have to come in optimistic and thinking they can win.

Oakland-Craig has to think they have a realistic and legit shot to compete well in and perhaps win this match because I believe they do.

I thought the Knights showed flash and potential Tuesday night, but there just wasn't enough consistency in Oakland-Craig's play for the Knights to do something.

Perhaps that will change Thursday night. Oakland-Craig could really benefit from that happening because the Knights could really use a signature win.

Oakland-Craig has tried their best and fought hard all season, they just don't have much to show for it.

But given the Jaguars' recent struggles, the Knights have to be confident and think they've got a shot in this match.

Playing at Howells-Dodge is never easy, but Oakland-Craig has to head in there and just play their game.

The Knights have to drown out any crowd noise if at all possible, and just do what they do.

Oakland-Craig can't get rattled or frustrated. The Knights have to remain calm at all times, and can't get flustered, nervous, or scared at any time in the match either.

The Jaguars will probably go on some scoring runs, but how Oakland-Craig responds to those runs could very well dictate and determine how the rest of the match goes.

The Knights have to play with great resolve, and must respond to adversity as best they can.

If Oakland-Craig can do these things, then I think a win, or at least a set win or two, is not out of the realm of possibility.

First serve is slated for 7:30 p.m. on the Bull.

Logan View goes 2-2 at Louisville Tournament; falls at Clarkson/Leigh

The Logan View Volleyball team is 2-3 in their last five matches, downing Weeping Water 2-1 and Johnson County Central 2-0 at the Louisville Tournament on Saturday, but losing 2-0 to DC West and Omaha Brownell-Talbot at the tournament, and then falling 3-0 at Clarkson/Leigh Tuesday night.

The Raiders downed the Thunderbirds 25-22 in set one, and 25-14 in set two.

The Falcons topped Logan View 25-16 in the first set, and 25-13 in the second set.

The Indians grabbed set one from the Raiders, 25-22, but Logan View won set two 25-13, and set three 28-26.

Omaha Brownell-Talbot grabbed the first set 25-22, and the second set 25-15.

The Patriots won set one 25-6, set two 25-13, and set three 25-8.

I think the Raiders are probably disappointed in the way they played against Clarkson/Leigh, but Logan View has to be encouraged by how they played on Saturday.

The Raiders (4-15) host Madison (1-12) Thursday night.

The Dragons lost 2-0 to Wisner-Pilger and BRLD at the Wisner-Pilger Double Triangular Tuesday night.

This should be a competitive match, but I look for Logan View to win.

I think it would be a big deal for the Raiders to pick up their 5th win of the season.

Logan View has a very tough schedule the rest of the season after this so the Raiders must get this one to give themselves some momentum and a confidence boost heading into the rest of the matches this season.

Logan View did well in the first set against DC West, and it's efforts like that that the Raiders need to continue to get.

I really think Logan View has a chance to sweep this match if they play like they did in that first set against the Falcons.

The Raiders could find themselves in a dog fight if it's a repeat of the Clarkson/Leigh match though.

I realize the Patriots are a very good team, but Logan View has to find a way to be consistently competitive night in and night out.

I'm willing to bet the Raiders weren't as fresh as they would like to be Tuesday night given the fact they played four matches on Saturday, but Logan View should be ready to go Thursday night having had a couple days to prepare and rest.

This would have to be one of those feel good matches for the Raiders should they pick up a win.

Logan View has made so many strides a lot of progress so far this season, and I look for the Raiders to continue to grow and progress before season's end.

The rest of the regular season matches will definitely test Logan View's mental and physical toughness, and resolve.

The way the Raiders respond to adversity and challenges will no doubt define the rest of their season.

Logan View has to definitely be proud of what they've accomplished so far this year, but has to want more.

The Raiders have to keep getting better everyday in practice and in matches, and continue to challenge and make their opponents work hard and earn their points.

The better Volleyball Logan View plays, the more respect and notoriety they will get.

North Bend Central continues dominant play

The North Bend Central Volleyball team has continued to roll, sweeping West Point-Beemer 3-0 at home Thursday night, and winning the David City Tournament on Saturday by sweeping Twin River, David City Aquinas, and Shelby/Rising City 2-0, before sweeping the Titans 3-0 on the road Tuesday night.

The Tigers won set one over the Cadets, 25-14, set two 25-11, and set three 25-21.

North Bend Central defeated Twin River 25-16 in sets one and two in the tournament matchup.

The Tigers topped the Huskies 25-12 in the first set, and 25-7 in the second set.

North Bend Central downed the Monarchs 25-19 in set one, and 25-15 in set two.

The Tigers took set one from the Titans in the second match between the two teams, 25-11, set two 25-22, and set three 25-15.

North Bend Central has continued to play amazing Volleyball. I would say the Tigers are very deserving of their #3 ranking.

North Bend Central (17-0) hosts Malcolm (16-1) Thursday night.

The Clippers swept Conestoga 3-0 at home Tuesday night.

This ought to be a great match as both teams have only lost three sets all season.

It wouldn't shock me if this match was a five set thriller.

Malcolm won last year's match, and I look for the Tigers to get redemption this time around.

This is North Bend Central's chance to show what they can do on a big stage and against a great team.

This is by far the Tigers' toughest match up to this point in the season.

These are the kinds of teams North Bend Central is going to run into in the postseason and at state should they make it that far so the Tigers have to come out ready to go Thursday night.

Kristin Lux and Brooke Fredrickson, along with players like Kaitlyn Bjorklund have to step up and be at their best.

I anticipate a huge crowd and electric atmosphere, and North Bend Central has to do everything in their power to defend their home court.

The Tigers are a great team as are the Clippers, and this should be a very compelling and entertaining match.

I would imagine all sets played will be very close and competitive.

We will truly find out just how good this North Bend Central team is by how they fare in this match.

Big time players step up in big time games, and that is certainly what Lux and Fredrickson need to do in this match.

This is the Tigers' big stage, and North Bend Central needs to step up and make the most of their opportunity.

I feel this is a golden opportunity for North Bend Central to go out there and make a statement.

I think the Tigers have a great chance to get payback from what happened last year.

Again, if I had to make a prediction, I would say North Bend Central in 5, but things could definitely go a different way and/or either way.

I would suggest fans get their early because you can bet the gym will fill up quickly.

West Point-Beemer loses at North Bend Central; splits Arlington Triangular

The West Point-Beemer Volleyball Team lost 3-0 at North Bend Central Thursday night, and 2-0 to Arlington at the Arlington Triangular Tuesday night, before downing Wayne 2-1 at the Triangular.

The Tigers won set one 25-14, set two 25-11, and set three 25-21.

The Cadets won the first set over the Blue Devils, 25-17, and lost set two 25-23, before taking set three 25-21.

The Eagles downed West Point-Beemer 25-18 in the first set, and 25-21 in the second set.

I thought the Cadets did a really nice job bouncing back from the loss to North Bend Central by beating Wayne, but inconsistency reared its ugly head on West Point-Beemer in the Arlington match I would say.

The Cadets (8-6) host Norfolk Catholic (2-10) Thursday night.

The Knights lost 2-0 to Lutheran High Northeast and Crofton at their own Triangular Tuesday night.

West Point-Beemer ought to be able to pick up a win here, and sweep the match.

I feel this match is an opportunity for the Cadets to gain some confidence and momentum, and set the tone for the rest of the season.

West Point-Beemer has been very good at times this season, but has struggled at others.

Perhaps a 3-0 win over Norfolk Catholic will give the Cadets a boost, and allow them to become more consistent.

I feel West Point-Beemer has what it takes to make a run here at the end of the season, and perhaps this is the match that will springboard the Cadets to bigger and better things.

West Point-Beemer has some matches coming up that should be sure wins, and other matches that could be wins if the Cadets play up to their potential.

West Point-Beemer just has to focus on good play at all times, and work on being very efficient hitters, passers, blockers, servers, and serve receivers.

I feel the Cadets are just waiting to breakout and go on a terror before the end of the regular season.

West Point-Beemer still has time, but it's time for the Cadets to start making their run towards postseason stardom.

Fort Calhoun and Tekamah-Herman are arguably having better seasons than West Point-Beemer to this point, and are in the Cadets' Subdistrict.

So what I'm trying to say is it is time for West Point-Beemer to step up their game and play at an elite level if they hope to get by either team in the postseason.

The Cadets have to play with passion, pride, fire, toughness, pride, passion, tenacity, and grit Thursday night.

West Point-Beemer has to come out and play at the highest level possible, and be fired up and ready to take it to the Knights for however many sets the match lasts.

I think this is a match the Cadets will sweep, and that should only allow the players' confidence to grow.

It should be a good night of Volleyball all the way around for West Point-Beemer.

Wisner-Pilger goes 2-1 at Wisner-Pilger Classic

The Wisner-Pilger Volleyball team went 2-1 at the Wisner-Pilger Classic on Saturday, downing Homer and Chambers/Wheeler Central 2-0, but losing 2-1 to Humphrey St. Francis.

The Gators downed the Knights 25-11 in set one, and 25-15 in set two.

Maci Batenhorst had 9 kills while Lauren Jacobsen totaled 9 set assists.

Wisner-Pilger topped the Renegades 25-9 in the first set, and 25-13 in the second set.

Jordan Wegner registered 11 kills while Jacobsen notched 14 set assists.

The Gators took set one from the Flyers, 25-13, before Humphrey St. Francis won set two 25-20, and set three 25-21.

Wegner had 17 kills and 10 digs while Batenhorst totaled 12 kills and 15 digs. Ariel Meyer posted 18 digs and 9 set assists while Karrin Jindra and Ashton Meyer recorded 8 digs apiece. Jacobsen compiled 7 digs and 30 set assists.

I thought Wisner-Pilger played better against Humphrey St. Francis than they have against the other elite teams on the schedule. The type of production they got is what they need to continue to get in those matches. With that said, I'm not sure how the Gators lost the match after winning set one the way they did. Not sure if it was a lack of concentration or focus or what.

Wisner-Pilger (9-6) hosts Howells-Dodge (9-3) and Madison (1-10) at the Wisner-Pilger Double Triangular Tuesday night.

The Jaguars lost 3-0 at Lutheran High Northeast Tuesday night while the Dragons went 0-3 at the Wisner-Pilger Classic on Saturday.

The Gators should handle Madison with relative ease, but Howells-Dodge will be tough for sure.

The Jaguars have had an entire week to prepare for their matches with Wisner-Pilger and BRLD, and figure to be tough and ready to go for sure.

I feel this is the Gators' chance to finally get over the hump and beat a great team though.

Wisner-Pilger almost got the job done against Humphrey St. Francis on Saturday, and I feel they will do it this time around.

The Gators have to slam the door shut if they get up 1-0 though.

No letting Howells-Dodge come back and win like the Flyers did.

Wisner-Pilger has to seal the match and finish the job.

Wegner, Batenhorst, Ariel and Ashton Meyer, Jacobsen, and Jindra all need to have the same kind of matches they had against Humphrey St. Francis.

If the Gators can get the same kind of production they did from them on Saturday against the Flyers then they should be in pretty good shape.

Wisner-Pilger has to put all their energy and effort into the match against the Jaguars. The Gators have to still be focused against the Dragons, but they shouldn't have a problem in that match.

Wisner-Pilger's main focus has to be on Howells-Dodge.

It's a big match for the Gators, and time for Wisner-Pilger to step up and rise to the challenge.

It's time for the Gators to get the job done this time around.

Wisner-Pilger is very capable of winning both matches Tuesday night. I think anything less than two wins would have to be considered a disappointment.

The Gators have to win the battle at the net, and hit and block well. Wisner-Pilger might have a slight advantage in height, but talent is about the same although the Gators are the more veteran team you could say.

And given the fact that Wisner-Pilger is more experienced I think they stand a good chance to beat the Jaguars.

Clarkson/Leigh goes 1-2 at Stanton Tournament, beats Twin River

The Clarkson/Leigh Volleyball team went 1-2 at the Stanton Triangular on Saturday, and topped Twin River 3-2 at home Tuesday night.

On Saturday, the Patriots lost 2-0 to West Point-Beemer and Hartington Cedar Catholic, and beat Arlington 2-1.

Clarkson/Leigh took set one 25-15 and set three 25-22 from the Eagles while losing set two 25-20.

The Cadets topped the Patriots 25-21 in the first set, and 25-13 in the second set.

The Trojans won set one over Clarkson/Leigh 25-20, and set two 25-21.

Halee Steffensmeier had 13 digs while Kaegan Held totaled 9 set assists.

The Patriots won the first set over the Titans, 25-20. Twin River took set two 25-16 before Clarkson/Leigh won set three 25-16. The Titans earned a 25-19 win in set four before the Patriots claimed set five 15-9.

Sydney Folken led the way with 13 kills while Hannah Kasik totaled 10 kills and 14 digs. Paige Moore added 9 kills while Steffensmeier registered 21 digs. Held and Sara McEvoy notched 13 digs apiece while Held dished out 35 set assists.

Clarkson/Leigh is playing great, championship Volleyball right now. The Patriots had an off match against West Point-Beemer, but really competed well in the loss to Hartington Cedar Catholic I would say. The wins speak for themselves. Beating Arlington was huge as the Eagles just beat GACC, who could be Clarkson/Leigh's biggest postseason threat.

The Patriots (7-3) take part in the Hampton Tournament on Saturday.

Up first for Clarkson/Leigh is Deshler (3-7).

The Dragons have lost to some good teams, and might be better than their record indicates.

The Patriots play a lot of C-2 and C-1 schools though so I look for Clarkson/Leigh to win this one.

I think the Patriots have a legit shot to win this tournament given the way they have played so far this season.

Clarkson/Leigh is as good as advertised, and I think the Patriots will show that on Saturday.

If people don't know about Clarkson/Leigh by now they will after Saturday, in my opinion.

I feel this tournament will be good exposure for the Patriots, and will allow them to showcase their abilities in another part of the state.

I think Clarkson/Leigh has to be viewed as a legit state contender the way they have played so far this season.

The Patriots have a lot of talent and have been playing together for a really long time, and this Junior Class is very, very talented.

Clarkson/Leigh has to remain humble, and must continue to work hard and play their tails off every time they take to the floor.

The Patriots have to remain focused, and must keep their eye on the prize.

Clarkson/Leigh has to continue to execute in all facets of the game, and must do it confidently.

The Patriots have to hit, pass, block, serve, and serve receive the ball with determination and purpose.

Clarkson/Leigh has to play for keeps, and with tenacity, fire, toughness, passion, grit, and determination.

If the Patriots can continue to do the things they've done and continue to play the way they have all season there's no reason why Clarkson/Leigh can't have success on Saturday.

It should be a great day of Volleyball for the Patriots.

Wisner-Pilger splits Triangulars

The Wisner-Pilger Volleyball team split the Stanton Triangular Tuesday night and the Crofton Triangular Thursday night, beating Pender 2-0, but losing 2-0 to Stanton Tuesday night, and downing the host Trojans 2-0, but losing 2-0 to Battle Creek Thursday night.

The Gators defeated the Pendragons 25-13 in set one and 25-18 in set two.

Jordan Wegner had 10 kills while Lauren Jacobsen totaled 8 digs and 14 set assists. Ariel Meyer chipped in 9 set assists.

The Mustangs downed Wisner-Pilger 25-12 in the first set, and 25-10 in the second set.

Wegner notched 7 kills while Maci Batenhorst registered 7 digs. Jacobsen compiled 8 set assists.

The Gators topped the Warriors 25-21 in set one, and 25-14 in set two.

Wegner and Batenhorst recorded 8 and 7 kills, respectively, while Jacobsen totaled 11 set assists.

The Braves grabbed set one from Wisner-Pilger 25-13, and won set two 25-20.

Batenhorst led the way with 8 kills and 7 digs while Jacobsen notched 11 set assists.

The Gators did a good job beating Crofton and Pender, but struggled against Stanton and Battle Creek in a way I would say.

Wisner-Pilger (7-5) hosts the Wisner-Pilger Classic on Saturday.

The first opponent for the Gators is Homer (3-12).

The Knights are coming off a 3-1 home loss to GACC Tuesday night.

This should be a win for Wisner-Pilger.

I look for it to be a good day of Volleyball for the Gators.

I think Wisner-Pilger will play well all day on Saturday.

I believe the Gators are capable of playing well and beating tough competition as they gave the Braves a tough second set.

Wisner-Pilger just has to raise their level of play when they take on the great teams on their schedule, and Wegner, Batenhorst, and Jacobsen need to continue to do their thing.

Meyer and others need to step up for the Gators and contribute in a big way.

Wisner-Pilger needs to come together as a team and have everyone play the way Wegner, Batenhorst, and Jacobsen have.

As good as those three are...other girls need to step up and help.

If the Gators could get the whole team to increase their productivity they could be a great team.

Right now Wisner-Pilger is a good, solid team, but is not yet elite, in my opinion.

That's not to say they can't be because they can, but it just hasn't happened yet.

Perhaps this Saturday will be the day for the Gators to string a bunch of wins together in a row.

So far, Wisner-Pilger has gone on a pattern where they win one or two then lose one or two and so on.

That could definitely change for the Gators, but Wisner-Pilger needs to turn the corner and play strong on Saturday.

The Girls have to wake up excited for the day, and must be ready to play at a high and elite level.

GACC loses at Homer, splits home Triangular

The GACC Volleyball team went 2-1 this week, downing Homer 3-1 on the road Tuesday night, and beating Oakland-Craig 2-0 after losing 2-0 to Arlington at the GACC Triangular Thursday night.

The Bluejays defeated Homer 25-19 in set one before losing set two 25-21. GACC took set three 27-25, and set four 25-22.

Ally Plagge notched 13 kills and 16 digs while Riley Throener totaled 12 kills. Brooklyn Bailey added 9 kills while Hanna Knobbe and Meghan Brunsing registered 17 and 13 digs, respectively. Kali Stratman dished out 20 set assists.

The Eagles won set one 25-20, and set two 25-16.

Throener had 11 kills to lead the Bluejays. Plagge added 7 digs while Stratman recorded 14 set assists.

Head Coach Paul Steuter. "Well I thought overall we played fairly well. Against Arlington, the in system offense ran well when we could put up a good first pass. Serve receive has kind of been one of our achilles' heels, and service errors have been the other one. When we eliminate those we have the potential to be a pretty good team, but we still have some work to do on those two facets of the game."

GACC earned a 25-16 set one win, and grabbed set two 25-11 over Oakland-Craig.

Throener paced the Bluejays with 8 kills while Stratman dished out 15 set assists.

Steuter on his team's overall performance in the triangular. "When we execute on our side we can be a very good ball team. And I think the girls started believing in that. It's always easier to play when you have the lead, you're a lot looser, and I think that showed tonight. And it also allowed me to get a lot of my bench into the games for those later parts of those games."

GACC (5-7) is off until Tuesday night when they take on Wahoo Neumann (9-2) on the road.

The Cavaliers are a very strong team, and the Bluejays definitely have their work cut out for them in this match.

GACC needs Throener, Plagge, and Bailey to perform well offensively, and for Stratman to continue her excellent play setting those three up.

Knobbe, Plagge, and Brunsing need to play well defensively as well.

The Bluejays need the same kind of production they got against Homer, but need to play at a higher level than they have been lately.

I felt like GACC could of done better against Arlington, but the Eagles handled the Bluejays pretty easily.

If there's a team that can right the ship and do great things it's GACC, but the Bluejays have a tough stretch of matches over the next couple of weeks.

Even if GACC doesn't win these tough matches coming up, they should help the Bluejays prepare for a postseason run.

GACC just has to remain patient, and be willing to continue to work, learn and grow.

I understand they're used to a lot of winning at GACC and have great tradition, but even if the Bluejays struggle against these C-1 and C-2 schools, they should have a chance to make a state run seeing as they are in D-1.

You would still like to see GACC compete well against Neumann and the other tough teams on their schedule though.

The Bluejays have been dominant in the past just like the Cavaliers so there's no reason why GACC can't get back to that level.

The Bluejays have to expect to win Tuesday night. GACC can't go in there thinking they're doomed or going to lose and not win, because if they do that then they are already beat.

Winning is an expectation at GACC, and the Bluejays have to come out and expect a lot out of themselves Tuesday night.

Oakland-Craig's struggles continue

Amid injuries, the Oakland-Craig Volleyball team has continued to struggle, losing 3-0 at home to North Bend Central Tuesday night, and 2-0 to GACC and Arlington at the GACC Triangular Thursday night.

The Tigers won set one 25-11, set two 25-14, and set three 25-10.

The Eagles took the first set 25-14, and the second set 25-11.

GACC earned a 25-16 set one win, and grabbed set two 25-11.

Injuries and youth have definitely taken their toll on the Knights.

Oakland-Craig (1-10) takes part in the Scribner-Snyder Invite on Saturday.

First up for the Knights is Elkhorn Valley (6-5).

The Falcons aren't too bad of a team, and figure to present Oakland-Craig a challenge.

I look at this Invite as an opportunity for the Knights to get their season back on track though.

Things could either go really well or really poorly for Oakland-Craig...it just depends on how well they play.

The Knights have been banged up this season, and have really struggled, but perhaps Oakland-Craig can turn in a good effort and play well on Saturday.

I'm sure the Knights are working hard and giving it their all, but it appears Oakland-Craig just doesn't have the personnel healthy to be a real factor.

It's unfortunate because I feel the Knights are a better team than what they've shown so far.

Hopefully Oakland-Craig isn't shorthanded and doesn't have a thin bench on Saturday because the Knights are going to need everyone.

These girls have to rally around each other, and find some strength and will within to compete.

I know it's difficult and frustrating to lose the way Oakland-Craig has, but the Knights have to persevere and rise above their struggles.

Oakland-Craig has to right the ship and overcome their losses and struggles.

The Knights have to keep things positive and continue to improve and grow as student athletes and as young ladies.

Oakland-Craig has to have high character, and maintain good spirits despite their struggles.

Losing is never fun nor easy to take and so the Knights must find a way to start winning.

Perhaps Oakland-Craig will start doing better when they get some girls back, but regardless, the Knights need to play well in all facets of the game to be successful.

That includes hitting, passing, blocking, serving, and serve receiving well.

Pender goes 0-2 at Stanton Triangular

The Pender Volleyball team went 0-2 at the Stanton Triangular Tuesday night, losing 2-0 to the host Mustangs and Wisner-Pilger.

The Pendragons dropped set one 25-7 to the Mustangs, and lost set two 25-9.

Pender lost set one to the Gators, 25-13, and set two 25-18.

Two very difficult matches and opponents for the Pendragons, but I thought Pender competed pretty well with Wisner-Pilger, at least in the second set.

The Pendragons (3-8) travel to Scribner to take on Scribner-Snyder (4-4) Monday night.

The Trojans lost 3-0 at BRLD Tuesday night.

Nicole Boyle hurt her ankle in warmups against the Wolverines, and if she's still out or limited on Monday that could have a significant impact on the match.

Pender has to play optimistic Volleyball, and play to win come Monday night.

This is a match the Pendragons can win, and I wouldn't be surprised if this match went five sets.

Pender just has to build off the second set they put together against Wisner-Pilger, and focus on what they did well in that set and apply that to Monday night's match.

Next week is a huge week for the Pendragons as they play every night except Wednesday and Friday.

Pender has to be on top of their game and ready to go Monday night and the rest of the week. I feel next week's matches could very well define the Pendragons' season.

Pender has a shot at some wins next week so the Pendragons have to step up their game and play well all five days/nights they take to the floor.

Pender has to raise their level of play, and play their best Volleyball of the season Monday night and beyond.

The Pendragons have to come out raring to go from the start, and must take the fight to Scribner-Snyder.

Pender has to start strong, and finish even stronger, and close out the match if they have the opportunity.

The Pendragons have to seal the deal and not let the Trojans rally it it comes down to it.

Scribner-Snyder is a tough team, but Pender has played a little bit tougher of a schedule I would say.

I really feel this match is a toss up and can go either way.

I think it honestly comes down to who plays the best and who wants it more. The team that executes the best and makes the fewest mistakes will likely be the winner.

Stanton 6-1 in last 7 matches

The Stanton Volleyball team is 6-1 over their last 7 matches, beating Boone Central/Newman Grove and Norfolk Catholic 2-0 at the Boone Central/Newman Grove Triangular last Thursday night, and West Point-Beemer and Twin River 2-0 at the Stanton Tournament on Saturday while losing to Hartington Cedar Catholic 2-1. The Mustangs topped Wisner-Pilger and Pender 2-0 at the Stanton Triangular Tuesday night.

Stanton downed the Cardinals 25-13 in set one, and 25-18 in set two.

Bree Burtwhistle had 9 kills and 9 set assists while Makenna Espinoza dished out 13 set assists.

The Mustangs defeated the Knights 25-15 in the first set, and 25-10 in the second set.

Burtwhistle notched 12 kills and 16 set assists while Jessie Brandl had 9 kills. Jaiden Hartl added 12 digs while Espinoza dished out 12 set assists.

Stanton upended the Titans 25-7 in set one, and 25-16 in set two.

Hannah Heppner totaled 9 kills while Jessie Brandl registered 13 digs. Espinoza and Burtwhistle recorded 14 and 9 set assists, respectively.

The Mustangs handled the Cadets 25-22 in the first set, and 25-8 in the second set.

Burtwhistle posted 9 kills, 15 digs, and 11 set assists while Brandl and had 8 kills and 7 digs. Hartl added 7 digs while Espinoza compiled 14 set assists.

Stanton won set one over the Trojans, 25-19, before Hartington Cedar Catholic won set two 25-22, and set three 26-24.

Brandl led the way with 15 kills and 12 digs while Burtwhistle totaled 12 kills, 9 digs, and 18 set assists. Heppner put down 8 kills while Hartl totaled 7 digs. Espinoza added 15 set assists.

The Mustangs defeated the Pendragons 25-7 in set one, and 25-9 in set two.

Brandl had a team-high 7 kills while Burtwhistle and Espinoza contributed 11 and 8 set assists, respectively.

Stanton knocked off the Gators 25-12 in set one, and 25-10 in set two.

Burtwhistle led the way with 9 kills and 7 set assists while Brandl notched 7 kills and 7 digs. Espinoza chipped in 13 set assists.

The Mustangs have continued to play great and lights out Volleyball. I'm sure Stanton would like to have the Hartington Cedar Catholic match back though.

The Mustangs (13-2) take on Oakland-Craig (1-10) and Tekamah-Herman (10-5) at the Tekamah-Herman Tournament Tuesday night.

The Knights lost 2-0 to Arlington and GACC at the GACC Triangular Thursday night while the Tigers swept Madison 3-0 at home Tuesday night.

As long as Stanton is prepared and ready to play they should win both matches.

The Mustangs have to finish both teams off though, and not let either team comeback like they did against the Trojans.

Stanton responded very well Tuesday night, and needs to play that way again this coming Tuesday.

The Mustangs were dominant and smashed, and that's exactly what Stanton needs to do again come Tuesday night.

Burtwhistle, Brandl, and Heppner need to have light out performances for the Mustangs, and Hartl needs to continue to perform well defensively. Burtwhistle and Espinoza have proven to be a great one two punch so far this year.

Stanton is as good as they come, and is a very tough team physically and mentally, in my opinion.

You can bet the Mustangs will be focused and ready to go Tuesday night. It should be another great night of Volleyball for Stanton.

The Mustangs need to have good days of practice leading up to the matches, and must be ready to sweep both teams.

I would be awfully surprised if Stanton didn't sweep both Oakland-Craig and Tekamah-Herman.

These are big matches with them being conference contests so the Mustangs have to come out and take care of business.

I look for Stanton to play with a business like attitude Tuesday night and not let any crowd noise or antics get to them at all.

This is a veteran and experienced team, and I expect the Mustangs to come out and handle things with great poise Tuesday night.

Stanton shouldn't have any issues taking care of business against both squads. 

Tekamah-Herman 2-2 in last four matches

The Tekamah-Herman Volleyball team is 2-2 in their last four matches, losing 2-0 to Fort Calhoun and Omaha Roncalli, but beating BRLD 2-1 at the Tekamah-Herman Tournament on Saturday. The Tigers swept Madison 3-0 at home Tuesday night.

The Wolverines took set one 26-24, but Tekamah-Herman bounced back to win set two 25-15, and set three 25-20.

The Crimson Pride grabbed set one 25-22, and won set two 25-19.

The Pioneers earned a win in set one, 25-18, and nabbed set two 25-15.

The Tigers won the first set over the Dragons 25-9, the second set 25-18, and the third set 25-12.

Solid play from Tekamah-Herman lately. The Tigers are trotting right along.

Tekamah-Herman (10-5) hosts Oakland-Craig (1-10) and Stanton (13-2) Tuesday night at the Tekamah-Herman Triangular.

The Knights lost 2-0 to Arlington and GACC at the GACC Triangular Thursday night while the Mustangs swept Wisner-Pilger and Pender at the Stanton Triangular Tuesday night.

I feel the Oakland-Craig match will be a win, but the Stanton match might be a different story.

The Tigers have played good enough Volleyball this year to compete with the Mustangs though.

I look for Tekamah-Herman to play well Tuesday night and give both teams their best shot.

I look for the Tigers to sweep Oakland-Craig with all the injuries the Knights are dealing with right now, and perhaps take a set from Stanton.

Tekamah-Herman should be well rested and confident following the sweep of the Dragons on Tuesday.

You can bet the Tigers will come ready to play against both opponents Tuesday night, and give it all they got.

Tekamah-Herman is having a nice season, and needs to continue to play at a high level to keep winning.

I felt like the Tigers could and should have done better against Fort Calhoun and Omaha Roncalli, but then again the Crimson Pride is a Class B team and the Pioneers are solid in C-1.

Fort Calhoun is in Tekamah-Herman's Subdistrict so that loss really stings, but I look for the Tigers to use it as fuel and motivation for Tuesday night's matches.

Tekamah-Herman has to come out and play well and be ready to smash Tuesday night.

The Tigers can't back down from the Mustangs at all, and must come out ready to play a great match.

Tekamah-Herman has to go blow for blow and toe-to-toe with Stanton, and give the Mustangs all they can handle.

The Tigers have to turn in their best performance of the year, and execute in all facets of the game.

Howells-Dodge beats Logan View, loses to Lutheran High Northeast

The Howells-Dodge Volleyball team swept Logan View 3-0 at home last Thursday night before losing 3-0 at Lutheran High Northeast Tuesday night.

The Jaguars downed the Raiders 25-19 in set one, 25-14 in set two, and 25-12 in set three.

Macey Kulhanek finished with 9 kills and 10 digs while Erin Prusa totaled 7 kills. Taya VanLengen added 10 digs while Alyssa Coufal and Lexie Brester notched 18 and 11 set assists, respectively.

The Eagles took the first set 25-16, the second set 25-13, and the third set 25-20.

Kulhanek and VanLengen had 10 digs apiece while Coufal managed 7 digs and 10 set assists.

Howells-Dodge played great against Logan View, but struggled with LHNE for whatever reason.

The Jaguars (9-3) take on BRLD (7-10) and Wisner-Pilger (6-4) at the Wisner-Pilger Double Triangular Tuesday night.

The Wolverines topped Scribner-Snyder 3-0 at home Tuesday night while the Gators beat Pender 2-0, but lost 2-0 to Stanton at the Stanton Triangular Tuesday night.

Both of these matches should be challenging for Howells-Dodge.

BRLD has really come on lately, and is led offensively by the likes of Vicki Gatzemeyer and Halle Wortman. The Jaguars definitely have to be wary of those two.

Then for Wisner-Pilger...Jordan Wegner and Maci Batenhorst are the top two offensive players I would say.

So it's a matter of Howells-Dodge keeping all the star players for their opponents in check, and getting Kulhanek, Prusa, and others going offensively.

The Jaguars need a couple of girls to record a good number of kills to be successful night in and night out, in my opinion.

No one stepped up for Howells-Dodge offensively Tuesday night, and it cost the Jaguars.

These are two tough teams and matches, and Howells-Dodge has to be on top of their game and clicking on all cylinders.

It will be difficult, but I feel the Jaguars are capable of taking both matches.

Neither the Wolverines or Gators have fared well against tough competition this year so Howells-Dodge should have a fairly decent chance of winning both matches.

The Jaguars have to play better than they did against the Eagles though. If Howells-Dodge plays like they did against LHNE they could very well lose both matches Tuesday night.

If I had to say which match is going to be tougher it would be Wisner-Pilger, but the match with BRLD will be no cakewalk.

Howells-Dodge has a good amount of time to practice and prepare so I look for the Jaguars to be fresh and ready to go come Tuesday night.

Logan View winless in last 6 matches

The Logan View Volleyball Team is 0-6 in their last 6 matches, losing 3-0 at Howells-Dodge last Thursday night, 2-0 to Yutan, Schuyler, and Homer at the Logan View Invite on Saturday, and 2-0 to West Point-Beemer and Humphrey/Lindsay Holy Family at the Humphrey/Lindsay Holy Family Triangular Tuesday night.

The Jaguars won set one 25-19, set two 25-14, and set three 25-12.

The Chieftains downed the Raiders 25-22 in the opening set, and 26-24 in the second set.

The Knights topped Logan View 25-17 in set one, and 25-21 in set two.

The Warriors defeated the Raiders 25-12 in the first set, and 25-20 in the second set.

The Bulldogs knocked off Logan View 25-10 in set one, and 25-12 in set two.

The Cadets upended the Raiders 25-16 in the first set, and 25-20 in the second set.

It has been tough sledding for Logan View as of late. I feel the Raiders have sunk into a lull and lost some of the competitiveness they were playing with at the start of the season although a lot of the sets have been closer this year than in years past.

Logan View (2-12) takes part in the Louisville Tournament on Saturday.

I'm not sure who's all in the tournament besides the host Lions, but I think the Raiders have a chance to compete in this tournament.

Logan View went 1-3 in last year's tournament, but I feel the Raiders have a chance to do better than that last year.

Logan View just has to keep competing and making strides in every match.

The Raiders have been close in some sets over their last six matches, it's just getting over the hump and winning a set or a tough match that is going to get Logan View over the top and to the next level, in my opinion.

The Raiders have made strides over last year, but still haven't won a set in their last six matches.

That's something that needs to change on Saturday if Logan View wants to take the next steps in their program.

If the Raiders could go something like 2-2 on Saturday I think they would be happy and satisfied.

And if that doesn't happen just winning a match and taking a set in another match would be a positive step in the right direction, in my opinion.

Logan View has to keep growing and getting better, and must continue to grind and hustle and work hard.

The Raiders have to keep working together as a team, and continue to make progress and lay a foundation for the future.

These girls are much more competitive this year than they have been in the past, but Logan View needs to make even more strides than they already have to take that next step.

The Raiders have a chance to win at least another 3-4 matches this year I would say, and that would put them past last year's total of 3.

I think if Logan View could double last year's win total and get to 6 they would be proud in many ways.

With that said, all the Raiders should be focused on right now is playing well on Saturday. Logan View begins the tournament with DC West, a team they lost to 3-0 at home back on August 31st.

Emerson-Hubbard swept at home by Ponca

The Emerson-Hubbard Volleyball team was swept 3-0 at home by Ponca Tuesday night.

The Indians won set one 25-11, set two 25-9, and set three 25-14.

It was certainly a tough match for the Pirates, but all Emerson-Hubbard can do now is put the loss in the rearview mirror and get ready for Thursday.

The Pirates (1-8) host Winnebago (3-8) and BRLD (7-10) in their own Triangular Thursday night.

The Indians lost 3-1 at home to Omaha Nation Tuesday night while the Wolverines swept Scribner-Snyder 3-0 at home Tuesday night.

BRLD figures to be very difficult to beat, but Emerson-Hubbard is definitely capable of beating Winnebago.

The Indians have already lost to two D-2 schools this year, and the Pirates are definitely capable of making it a third.

Emerson-Hubbard's confidence needs to be high, and the Pirates have to get ready to defend their home floor.

Emerson-Hubbard really needs something positive to go their way. The Pirates have yet to win a set this month.

Emerson-Hubbard hasn't won a set in any of their losses this year, and that's something that needs to change if the Pirates want to be more successful.

Emerson-Hubbard has to start over, start from scratch, and get back to the basics and fundamentals of the game.

Good hitting, passing, blocking, serving, serve receiving, and communication is all critical to the Pirates' success, in my opinion.

Emerson-Hubbard has to execute the fundamentals of the game, and make themselves a consistent threat every time they take the floor.

There's no reason why the Pirates can't be a team that is feared and to be reckoned with.

Right now teams aren't scared of or intimidated by Emerson-Hubbard, and it's hard to win matches when teams don't fear you.

The Pirates have to try and rediscover the magic of Emerson-Hubbard teams of the past, and become a consistent force.

The Pirates were once mighty, and all it takes is hard work, determination, and sacrifice to get back to the top.

Emerson-Hubbard needs something to build off of Thursday night. A win, or at least a set win or a close set loss could serve as that momentum booster, in my opinion.

There's just nothing to build off of losing three sets in a row with the closest set being 25-14. Ponca is a very good team though, probably better than either BRLD or Winnebago.