BRLD beats Winnebago and Emerson-Hubbard, loses to Howells-Dodge and Wisner-Pilger

The BRLD Volleyball Team won 2-0 over Emerson-Hubbard and Winnebago at the Winnebago Triangular last Thursday night before falling 2-0 to Howells-Dodge and Wisner-Pilger at the Wisner-Pilger Double Triangular Tuesday night.

The Wolverines defeated the Indians 25-8 in set one and 25-14 in set two.

Kelsey Larsen had 13 blocks and 8 digs while Tori Ostrand notched 9 blocks. Brandi Simonsen registered 20 digs while Berg chipped in 7. Caragan Tietz dished out 8 set assists.

BRLD topped the Pirates 25-17 in set one and 25-16 in set two.

Simosen recorded 13 digs while Tietz compiled 10 set assists.

The Gators beat the Wolverines 25-15 in set one and 25-10 in set two.

Simonsen tallied 17 digs while Larsen and Berg had 12 and 11, respectively.

The Jaguars won the opening set 25-13 and the second set 25-23.

Simonsen totaled 14 digs while Tietz posted 7.

BRLD (8-12) hosts Logan View/Scribner-Snyder (12-7) Tuesday night in action that can be heard on 107.9 the Bull.

The Raiders won 3-1 at Madison Thursday night.

Challenging, but winnable match for the Wolverines.

LVSS is having a nice season, but only has two wins against teams with records of .500 or better.

BRLD has certainly gone through their growing pains and struggles this season, but the Wolverines have a great opportunity in front of them.

I feel BRLD has what it takes to win, but it won't be easy.

The Raiders are veteran laden and experienced, and have talent.

The Wolverines are young and still trying to find their way, but perhaps BRLD can make some hay Tuesday night.

What better time to work your kinks out and get things figured out than Tuesday night.

The Wolverines have had a tough time against the tough quality teams on their schedule this season, but who's to say that can't change Tuesday night?

All it takes is one match to get things turned around.

Any team can turn things around at any given time just ask Norfolk Catholic.

The Knights were 1-9 heading into Tuesday's matches, and have now won 3 in a row over Lutheran High Northeast, Crofton, and West Point-Beemer.

Norfolk Catholic is a perfect example of a team can rise and shine at any given time, and BRLD has to use their situation as inspiration and hope.

We'll see if the Wolverines can get things going Tuesday night.

BRLD has North Bend Central and then the East Husker Conference Tournament and then a few winnable matches before the regular season ends so we'll see if the Wolverines can make some sort of late run here at the end of the regular season.

It can happen for BRLD, the Wolverines just have to believe in each other and themselves.

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

Logan View/Scribner-Snyder falls to Clarkson/Leigh, beats Madison

The Logan View/Scribner-Snyder Volleyball Team lost 3-0 at home to Clarkson/Leigh Tuesday night before winning 3-1 at Madison Thursday night.

The Patriots won set one 25-13, set two 25-10, and set three 25-12.

Emily Lewin had 14 digs while Ashley Uhing registered 9.

The Raiders won set one over the Dragons 25-19 and took set two 26-24 before losing set three 25-23. LVSS won set four 25-11.

Shaylin Daugherty notched 10 kills while Taylor Ruwe had 10 kills and 8 digs. Lewin posted 7 kills and 11 digs. Reagan Klein registered 10 digs and 27 set assists. Uhing and Tyler Christianson each had 8 digs.

Much better performance for LVSS on Thursday than on Tuesday I would say.

The Raiders (12-7) take on BRLD (8-12) in action that will be carried on 107.9 the Bull Tuesday night.

The Wolverines lost 2-0 to Howells-Dodge and Wisner-Pilger at the Wisner-Pilger Double Triangular Tuesday night.

BRLD ran into a couple of tough teams Tuesday night, and Logan View/Scribner-Snyder is another tough team.

This match is a big chance and opportunity for the Raiders.

I feel Logan View/Scribner-Snyder has a good chance to win this one.

This is a match the Raiders should win too.

The Wolverines are a solid team, but they are very young.

I've been impressed with Logan View/Scribner-Snyder this year....they've shown they are a much and vastly improved team.

The Raiders had a hiccup against Clarkson/Leigh, but bounced back and played well against Madison.

I look for LVSS to turn in another good performance on Tuesday, and pick up a win.

The Raiders need to play well at the net, and block and hit well.

Serving and passing will be big too I feel as will serve receiving.

Logan View/Scribner-Snyder has to play a complete game and execute in all facets of the game.

The Raiders' execution has to be flawless and LVSS has to play with tremendous heart and effort.

Logan View/Scribner-Snyder has to come out and play their game, their brand of Volleyball, and do what they have done to win matches to this point in the season.

The Raiders have a chance to do special things this year, and already have done some nice things, and I'm interested to see if LVSS can keep the ball rolling Tuesday night.

BRLD is young and inexperienced while the Raiders are veteran laden and experienced so this match is definitely LVSS's for the taking that's for sure.

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

Winnebago 2-6 in last 8 matches

The Winnebago Volleyball Team is 2-6 in their last 8 matches, winning 2-0 over Emerson-Hubbard, but losing 2-0 to BRLD at their home Triangular last Thursday night, falling 2-0 to Randolph, Fremont Bergan, Boyd County, and Elkhorn Valley at the Elkhorn Valley Tournament on Saturday, and then beating Walthill 2-1, but losing 2-1 to Omaha Nation at the Walthill Triangular Tuesday night.

The Indians defeated the Pirates 25-13 in set one and 25-17 in set two.

The Wolverines topped Winnebago 25-8 in the first set, and 25-14 in the second set.

The Cardinals beat the Indians 25-12 in set one and 25-14 in set two.

The Knights took set one 25-12 and set two 25-9.

The Spartans won 25-19 in the first set, and 25-14 in the second set.

The Falcons earned a 25-16 set one win, and took set two 25-12.

The Indians won set one over the Blujays 25-19, and took set three 25-22 after dropping set two 25-22.

Natasha Deal had 10 kills while Kiana Lewis totaled 9. Kiylista Harden notched 12 blocks while Marissa Picotte registered 12 set assists.

Winnebago won set one over the Chiefs 25-23 before Omaha Nation won set two 25-18 and set three 25-23.

Lewis recorded 13 kills and 7 set assists while Harden totaled 8 kills and 8 set assists. Jean Parker-Morris and Alex Neff each added 7 kills.

I feel like the Indians' play overall has slipped some since the beginning of the season.

Winnebago (6-10) takes on Homer (4-16) and Whiting, IA (3-11) at the Whiting, IA Triangular Tuesday night.

Homer went 0-3 at the Wisner-Pilger September Classic on Saturday.

I feel both matches are very winnable for the Indians, and are matches Winnebago can definitely compete in at the very least.

The Indians have to step up their game and be tough and resilient like they were in their last two Triangulars.

Winnebago appears to have put the Elkhorn Valley Tournament behind them some given their performance Tuesday night.

I thought the Indians played decent against the Blujays and Chiefs, but weren't or still aren't totally over Saturday's performance.

The good news about these matches on Tuesday is Winnebago will have had an entire week to prepare for both of these teams.

The Indians should be fresh, well rested, and ready to go.

There's no reason why Winnebago shouldn't be competitive and successful Tuesday night.

I feel the Indians have what it takes to win both matches, they just have to string some good sets together.

Winnebago has shown the potential to play tough in some sets, but other sets the Indians really struggle.

It's about Winnebago playing at a high level at all times, or at least more than they have over the past week or so.

The Indians are having a respectable season in many ways, but there is still a lot of work to be done a lot of things to be fixed.

Winnebago has a ways to go to get where they want, but I feel the Indians can definitely get there in time.

It's a process, and the Indians just have to keep making progress and strides.

Rome wasn't built overnight, and neither was Winnebago's Volleyball program.

The Indians just have to keep progressing forward and improving at the game and honing their skills to get where they want.

GACC falls to Bishop Neumann and Hartington Cedar Catholic

The GACC Volleyball Team dropped a pair of home matches this week, falling 3-0 at home to Bishop Neumann Tuesday night, and 3-0 at home to Hartington Cedar Catholic Thursday night.

The Cavaliers took all three sets from the Bluejays 25-13.

Hanna Knobbe had 22 digs while Reece Snodgrass and Sophia Hass totaled 17 and 16, respectively.

The Trojans won set one 25-17, set two 25-16, and set three 25-23.

Erica Engelmeyer had 10 blocks while Evelyn Wooldrik and Brooklyn Bailey notched 9 and 7, respectively. Haas and Snodgrass each had 13 digs while Knobbe tallied 12. Meghan Brunsing registered 10 set assists.

GACC simply ran into two juggernauts last week.

The Bluejays (7-7) host Battle Creek (15-6) Tuesday night.

The Braves beat Elgin Public/Pope John 2-1 and Boone Central/Newman Grove 2-0 at the Elgin Public/Pope John Triangular Thursday night.

Battle Creek has lost to both the Cavaliers and Trojans twice, taking a set at Hartington Cedar Catholic on Tuesday.

The Braves will definitely be a challenge for the Bluejays that's for sure.

Battle Creek has played a tough schedule and beaten some good teams.

Rachel Schlote and Madaline Taake are players to watch out for for the Braves as they led Battle Creek in kills against the Wolfpack and Cardinals, respectively.

GACC has to come out and play hard and play well.

The Bluejays have to step up their game and perform at a higher level than they have all season.

I thought GACC did a nice job playing well in the last set against Cedar Catholic, and that has to continue and carry over into Tuesday night.

Battle Creek is definitely beatable, the Bluejays just have to go out there and play well.

GACC needs better offensive production than they got last week though.

Players need to step up and put good swings on the ball and record points via the kill.

The Bluejays are a good team with a lot of potential, but I feel this team's talent is sort of raw right now.

GACC is young and still developing, but needs to take some steps forward Tuesday night if they can.

The Bluejays have Wisner-Pilger and Lutheran High Northeast at the LHNE Triangular Thursday night so two more challenging matches there GACC will need to be ready for.

The Bluejays really don't have it easy the rest of the way, and I'm sure that's how GACC would prefer to have and likes it.

When the going gets tough teams like the Bluejays generally get going, and I look for GACC to do that starting next week.

I feel next week will go better than this past week did for the Bluejays.

Howells-Dodge downs BRLD and Madison at Wisner-Pilger Double Triangular

The Howells-Dodge Volleyball Team swept Madison and BRLD 2-0 at the Wisner-Pilger Double Triangular Tuesday night.

The Jaguars defeated the Dragons 25-11 in set one and 25-14 in set two.

Erin Prusa had 10 kills while Taya VanLengen registered 9 digs. Alyssa Coufal added 22 set assists.

Howells-Dodge topped BRLD 25-13 in the first set, and 25-23 in the second set.

Prusa had 13 kills while VanLengen notched 16 digs. Coufal dished out 24 set assists.

Good performance from the Jaguars Tuesday night. I thought Howells-Dodge played pretty well.

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

Tough tournament with the likes of Clarkson/Leigh, Humphrey/Lindsay Holy Family, and Cross County in it.

The competition will be tough and challenging for sure, but I look for Howells-Dodge to step up and play well.

The Jaguars don't have a ton of big wins this year so this is their chance to pick up some wins over some good teams.

Howells-Dodge has a good record and has played really well at all times, but it's now it's time to step things up even more and play better.

The Jaguars need to knock off some of these good teams if they hope to make state and things like that.

Howells-Dodge will face some stiff competition in Sub-Districts and at Sub-State should the Jaguars make it that far.

Howells-Dodge has a key stretch of matches coming up with the Stanton match, Humphrey/Lindsay Holy Family Quad, and East Husker Conference Tournament.

I think we will truly find out how for real the Jaguars are over the next couple of weeks.

These matches coming up could be season defining for Howells-Dodge without a doubt.

The Jaguars have to step up and play well on Saturday, and then again on Tuesday and next Saturday leading up to the Conference Tournament.

It's getting to be crunch time, the nitty gritty for Howells-Dodge.

If the Jaguars can get out of this stretch with under 5 losses I think they would take it.

If Howells-Dodge drops like 6 or 7 matches and finds themselves with 10 or 11 losses on the season though I don't think that's something they will be real pleased with.

So the Jaguars have to play at least as well as they have been for most of the season if not better.

Howells-Dodge has to step things up and play their best Volleyball of the season over the next couple of weeks.

These matches will at least help prepare the Jaguars for what they are to see in the postseason for sure.

Oakland-Craig splits home and Stanton Triangulars

The Oakland-Craig Volleyball Team beat Arlington 2-0, but lost 2-0 to GACC at their home Triangular last Thursday night before beating Tekamah-Herman 2-0, and falling 2-0 to Stanton at the Stanton Triangular Tuesday night in action heard on 107.9 the Bull.

The Knights downed the Eagles 25-22 in set one and 25-15 in set two.

The Bluejays beat Oakland-Craig 27-25 in set one and 25-15 in set two.

The Mustangs won 25-12 in set one and 25-11 in set two.

Oakland-Craig won the first set over the Tigers 25-21 and the second set 25-19.

Good wins for the Knights against Arlington and Tekamah-Herman.

Oakland-Craig (5-11) takes part in the Clarkson/Leigh Invite on Saturday.

The Knights played the Patriots, BRLD, and Cross County in the Tournament last year.

Challenging tournament for sure, but a chance for Oakland-Craig to do well and compete too I feel.

Oakland-Craig has to use the momentum they've gained from their last two wins and build upon it on Saturday.

The Knights have a lot of talent, and I think started to play better Volleyball at the end of last week and earlier this week.

Oakland-Craig competed tough in a set against GACC, and if the Knights can play like that every set of every match then they could be pretty darn tough.

It's about playing at a high level and being consistent if you are Oakland-Craig.

The Knights have to raise their level of play even more than I feel they have lately, and make a run soon.

Oakland-Craig has some tough matches coming up so the Knights have to start winning some of these matches against quality teams.

Oakland-Craig doesn't really have that signature win yet this season, and has dropped some matches to teams with records below .500.

Perhaps things will change and the Knights will pick up that win or those wins on Saturday.

Time is running out for Oakland-Craig to make a run, yet there is still time for the Knights to do so.

Oakland-Craig has a lot of talent and veteran experience on this team, the Knights just need to simply put things together.

It can happen too, all it takes is a run of good play and a high level of execution.

If Oakland-Craig is on top of their game on Saturday I don't think there's any limit to what they can do.

The Knights have to keep fighting and must believe that they still have a run to make this season because it is definitely possible and can definitely happen.

Oakland-Craig simply has to go out there and make it happen.

Tekamah-Herman loses to Stanton and Oakland-Craig at Stanton Triangular

The Tekamah-Herman Volleyball Team went 0-2 at the Stanton Triangular Tuesday night in action heard on 107.9 the Bull, falling 2-0 to the host Mustangs and Oakland-Craig.

The Mustangs downed the Tigers 25-9 in set one and 25-13 in set two in the opening match of the night.

Oakland-Craig won the first set 25-21 and the second set 25-19.

I thought the Tigers did a good job competing against the Knights, but Tekamah-Herman was simply outmatched against Stanton.

The Tigers (1-16) take part in the Raymond Central Invite on Saturday.

Tekamah-Herman played Arlington, Raymond Central, and York in the tournament last year, and if the Tigers play any of those teams this year I think they have a chance to win.

I think Tekamah-Herman has what it takes to be and can be competitive in this tournament.

The Tigers just have to take a deep breath and try and figure out what's been going wrong so far this season.

It's a new day and a new game, and Tekamah-Herman has to come out firing on all pistons and cylinders.

Serving and serve receiving well will be important for the Tigers I feel.

Tekamah-Herman has to limit unforced errors and mistakes.

The Tigers have to make their opponents earn their points, and create some easy scoring opportunities for themselves.

Tekamah-Herman has to hit the ball in spots where the defense is going to be challenged.

The Tigers have to make the routine plays, and make the effort plays as well.

If Tekamah-Herman could make the simple plays I think it would go a long ways in helping them be successful.

Service errors really hurt the Tigers Tuesday night I think so Tekamah-Herman has to regroup and reorganize in that area.

The Tigers have to be able to execute the basics and fundamentals of the game if they want to be successful on Saturday.

This team is still young and learning, but sooner or later Tekamah-Herman has to figure it out.

I think the Tigers will get better with experience, and perhaps Tekamah-Herman will play better and inspired Volleyball on Saturday.

The Tigers definitely could of beat or at least taken a set from the Knights so Tekamah-Herman has to go out there and redeem themselves on Saturday.

The chance and opportunity for success is there for the Tigers, they just have to go out there and find a way to perform at a high level.

West Point-Beemer tops North Bend Central at home; splits home Triangular with Arlington and Wayne

The West Point-Beemer Volleyball Team won 3-1 at home over North Bend Central Thursday night, beating the Tigers for the first time since 2008, before knocking off Arlington 2-0 and losing 2-1 to Wayne at their home Triangular Tuesday night.

The Tigers took set one from the Cadets 25-22 before West Point-Beemer won set two 27-25, set three 25-15, and set four 25-13.

Sidney Swanson had 19 kills and 12 digs while Kendra Paasch and Brooke Haase had 7 kills apiece. Brooklyn Weddle posted 24 digs while Andrea Hoffman had 13. Sierra Kile posted 8 digs and 46 set assists.

The Cadets downed the Eagles 25-12 in set one and 25-11 in set two.

Kile had 10 ace serves and 20 set assists as West Point-Beemer had a school record 19 ace serves. Swanson added 13 digs while Hoffman and Weddle each had 8.

The Blue Devils took the first set from the Cadets 25-15, and won set three 25-18 after West Point-Beemer won set two 25-22.

Swanson notched 18 kills and 14 digs while Abby Kaup and Haase had 9 and 7 kills, respectively. Weddle chipped in 17 digs while Troyer tallied 9. Kile added 8 digs and 40 set assists while Hoffman registered 7 digs.

Head Coach Conley Straight. "Our serving was definitely very strong against Arlington, and I thought that for the most part carried over well against Wayne. We kind of got to a slow start in that first set, but really found our rhythm in set two against them. Came out and played kind of point for point against them in set three, but weren't able to hold with them there in the middle of the set, and they got the momentum and were able to finish us off there."

West Point-Beemer (10-9) takes on Norfolk Catholic (3-9) on the road Thursday night in action that can be heard on 107.9 the Bull.

The Knights beat Lutheran High Northeast 2-1 and swept Crofton 2-0 at the Crofton Triangular Tuesday night.

Straight breaks down the matchup. "I've saw a little bit of film on them. They're definitely not somebody you can overlook. They're scrappy kind of like us. They're not very organized in some senses sometimes, but a little unorthodox, but at the same time they're going to compete. And we're going to have to come out and play our style of Volleyball and be ready to compete with them. They're not going to let down easy, they're not going to make errors. We can't afford to let them make the errors. We're going to have to be the aggressor to start the match for sure."

Norfolk Catholic beat West Point-Beemer 3-1 in West Point last year.

Prior to Tuesday night's matches I would of said this is going to be an easy win for the Cadets, but I think it could be more a challenge now seeing what the Knights did Tuesday night.

Both teams have played a tough schedule and lost to some great teams so this should be a good battle for sure.

I feel this is a matchup between two teams who are better than their record indicates.

I think West Point-Beemer is better than their 10-9 record, and I think Norfolk Catholic is better than your average 3-9 team as well.

I wouldn't be surprised to see this one go 4 or 5 sets, not one bit.

Swanson needs to have a big match offensively for the Cadets, and Weddle needs to come up big defensively.

West Point-Beemer has to come out with authority and purpose Thursday night.

The Cadets have this match and then matches with DC West and Oakland-Craig at the DC West Triangular on Tuesday before a long break prior to the East Husker Conference Tournament.

West Point-Beemer has to use these next 3 matches as matches to find some consistency and play sharp Volleyball.

I really think the Cadets are saving their best for last, and a few wins prior to the Conference Tournament would be good.

Thursday's match is set to start at 7:30 p.m. on the Bull.

North Bend Central 2-3 in last five matches

The North Bend Central Volleyball Team is 2-3 in their last five matches, falling 3-1 at West Point-Beemer Thursday night before beating Yutan 2-0, losing 2-0 to David City Aquinas, and falling 2-1 to Twin River at the David City Invite on Saturday, and then turning around and beating the Titans 3-1 at home Tuesday night.

The Tigers took set one from The Cadets 25-22 before West Point-Beemer won set two 27-25, set three 25-15, and set four 25-13.

North Bend Central topped the Chieftains 25-14 in the opening set, and 25-17 in the second set.

The Monarchs downed the Tigers 25-12 in set one and 25-14 in set two.

North Bend Central lost set one to the Titans in the first meeting 25-17, and dropped set three 25-18 after winning set two 26-24.

In the second go around against Twin River, the Titans won set one 25-18 before the Tigers won set two 25-15, set three 25-18, and set four 25-22.

Big win for North Bend Central Tuesday night. Perhaps that win will spark a little run for the Tigers.

North Bend Central (6-9) takes on Malcolm (14-3) on the road Thursday night.

The Clippers went 2-1 at the Southern Invite on Saturday.

I think the Tigers can go in to Malcolm and compete and hold their own.

North Bend Central beat the Clippers at State last year and downed them in the regular season as well.

Much different team for the Tigers this year, but I was very impressed with North Bend Central's resilience, toughness, and moxie Tuesday night.

The Tigers really showed me something by beating the Titans.

Perhaps that will allow North Bend Central to win, or at least take a set or two Thursday night.

Tough road environment for sure, but I look for the Tigers to be ready.

You can bet Malcolm will be ready for payback so North Bend Central has to be unnerved and confident.

The Tigers can't cringe or tighten up and be scared of the Clippers.

North Bend Central has to take the floor believing they can and expecting to win.

The Tigers have to use the momentum they gained from Tuesday night's match and let it carry over to Thursday night.

The Tigers have to play like they did the last three sets against the Titans against Malcolm Thursday night and throughout the rest of the season.

Something changed and was different after Tuesday night's first set, in my opinion, and I'm curious to find out how North Bend Central's play that night carries over and translates into Thursday night.

The Tigers have to execute and be calm and unphased.

The Malcolm crowd will no doubt be ruckus Thursday night, and will probably be pretty hard on North Bend Central in terms of cheers and chants and that sort of thing.

The Tigers have to be able to handle it and go out there and play their game.

North Bend Central is less than a year removed from a 4th place finish at state so the Tigers have to go out there and play like champions.

Clarkson/Leigh wins Hampton Tournament; sweeps Logan View/Scribner-Snyder

The Clarkson/Leigh Volleyball Team won the Hampton Tournament on Saturday, defeating Mead 2-1,and Deshler and Red Cloud 2-0. The Patriots turned around and swept Logan View/Scribner-Snyder 3-0 on the road Tuesday night.

The Patriots beat the Dragons 25-19 in set one and 25-13 in set two.

Hannah Kasik had 9 digs while Kaegan Held totaled 8 digs and 20 set assists.

Clarkson/Leigh took set one from Mead 25-16, and won set three 25-22 after losing set two 25-19.

Kasik hammered down 12 kills and added 12 digs while Ashlynn Novtony notched 10 kills. Halee Steffensmeier registered 13 digs while Held posted 12 digs and 29 set assists. Sara McEvoy chipped in 7 digs.

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

Held recorded 12 set assists.

Clarkson/Leigh dominated LVSS, winning set one 25-13, set two 25-10, and set three 25-12.

Kasik led the way with 16 kills while Cassidy Hoffman had 7. Holly Kuhr posted 9 digs while Held dished out 25 set assists.

The Patriots continue to roll and play great Volleyball.

Clarkson/Leigh (11-3) hosts Class B Schuyler (3-9) Thursday night.

The Warriors lost 3-1 at home to David City on Thursday of last week.

This is the Patriots' chance to knock off the "big" school in Colfax County.

A school that was D-1 last year and is now C-2 going up against a school way larger than them.

Clarkson/Leigh has a big opportunity in front of them and can earn some extra power points with a win.

This would be a huge win for the Patriots despite Schuyler's struggles, in my opinion.

I think it would show Clarkson/Leigh they can compete with teams in larger classes if they don't believe that already.

The Patriots have some big matches coming up later on in the season, and I feel this match with the Warriors will help prepare Clarkson/Leigh for what lies ahead.

The Patriots have to come fired up and ready to go because you know Schuyler won't want to lose to a school that has been Class D-1 in the past and is two classes below them.

You can bet Clarkson/Leigh will get Schuyler's best shot so the Patriots have to be even more intense and play even harder than usual.

I think Clarkson/Leigh's big win over Logan View/Scribner-Snyder on Tuesday gives the Patriots the confidence they need to knock off Schuyler.

The Raiders are a solid C-1 team, and the Warriors are on the lower end of Class B.

It won't be easy for Clarkson/Leigh to beat Schuyler, but I think it can and will happen.

It doesn't matter if it's in 3, 4, or 5 sets....just as long as the Patriots find a way to win.

Clarkson/Leigh hosts a big tournament this weekend so a win over the Warriors would get the Patriots all pumped and fired up for the Clarkson/Leigh Invite on Saturday, in my opinion.

There are a lot of big matches and tournaments coming up for the Patriots so we will find out just how good Clarkson/Leigh is with this stretch run.

I look for the Patriots to keep coming through in the clutch like have all season long, but it won't be easy by any means.

Clarkson/Leigh has to be ready to bring it against Schuyler, and then again on Saturday for starters.

Stanton sweeps Tekamah-Herman and Oakland-Craig at home Triangular

The Stanton Volleyball Team won the Stanton Triangular aired on 107.9 the Bull Tuesday night, Sept. 25, sweeping both Tekamah-Herman and Oakland-Craig 2-0.

The Mustangs downed the Tigers 25-9 in set one and 25-13 in set two in the opening match of the night.

Jessie Brandl had 11 digs while Makenna Espinoza and Bree Burtwhistle totaled 11 and 9 set assists, respectively.

Stanton won 25-12 in set one and 25-11 in set two over the Knights.

Brandl posted 8 kills while Jaiden Hartl recorded 10 digs. Burtwhistle notched 8 digs and 19 set assists.

Two very dominating wins for the Mustangs, who appear to be unstoppable right now.

Stanton improves to 17-1 on the season and hosts Wayne (14-6) Thursday night.

The Blue Devils beat West Point-Beemer 2-1 and Arlington 2-0 at the West Point-Beemer Triangular Tuesday night.

If this match was in Wayne I would say an upset is possible, but I look for the Mustangs to roll at home Thursday night.

Stanton was so dominant over Tekamah-Herman and Oakland-Craig Tuesday night, and I know the Blue Devils are much better than the Tigers and Knights, but I look for the Mustangs to win big once again.

Stanton hasn't lost since Labor Day Weekend, and I look for the Mustangs to keep rolling right along like they have all season.

Stanton has some challenging matches coming up, including ones in the East Husker Conference Tournament, but I don't know if the Mustangs will lose another match this season.

Stanton has the ability to win out the rest of the way until state, in my opinion.

The Mustangs are clearly the best team in this area, and have proven time and time again that they are a great team.

Humphrey/Lindsay Holy Family could give Stanton a run in the EHC Tournament if the two play, in  my opinion, but I think the Mustangs are the top team in the Conference.

Stanton has been so dominant all season long and has been as good as advertised.

The Mustangs have to keep up this pace and keep crushing opponents and taking names.

Stanton flat out rolled Tuesday night, and I look for Stanton to dominate again Thursday night.

I think the Mustangs have really picked up their game the last 4 matches even.

I don't know if Stanton can play better than they are right now, but if they can wow...just wow.

The Mustangs are already great, but if they can win another state title they will go down as one of if not the best teams in school history.

This team is just so loaded with talented athletes it's amazing to see and watch.

This season has a chance to end in a very special way for Stanton, and I think the Mustangs realize that.

Pender loses to Winside and Humphrey/Lindsay Holy Family

The Pender Volleyball Team is 0-2 so far this week, losing 3-2 at Winside Monday night before falling 3-0 at Humphrey/Lindsay Holy Family Tuesday night.

The Wildcats won set one 25-21 and set two 25-17 before the Pendragons took set three 25-22 and set four 26-24 only to see Winside win set five 15-12.

Brittni Beckman and Sadie Lamplot had 13 kills each while Ashley Ostrand and Lamplot had 19 and 14 digs, respectively. Zoey Lehmkuhl totaled 8 digs and 26 set assists while Kaylin Sandall had 7 digs.

The Bulldogs took set one 25-13 and sets two and three 25-15.

Very difficult loss at Winside Monday night after rallying, and another tough match Tuesday night against Humphrey/Lindsay Holy Family.

Pender (3-10) hosts Neligh-Oakdale (11-3) and Emerson-Hubbard (1-12) in a Triangular Thursday night.

The Warriors won 2-0 over Bloomfield, but lost 2-1 to Plainview at their home Triangular Tuesday night while the Pirates fell 2-0 to Wynot and Ponca at the Ponca Triangular Tuesday night.

There shouldn't be any advantage in the Neligh-Oakdale match of who the fresher team is since both teams played Monday and Tuesday nights.

The Pendragons have lost 6 in a row, but I think that has a good chance to end against Emerson-Hubbard given the Pirates' struggles.

Pender beat Emerson-Hubbard 2-0 at the Emerson-Hubbard Triangular on September 4th.

I feel the Pendragons have played good Volleyball, they've just come up short in matches and lost to some good teams.

I think Pender has a chance to win both matches in this Triangular seeing as the Warriors have had close calls against or lost to some teams they shouldn't have, and the Pirates have really struggled offensively.

The Pendragons really need a win right now, something to get them back on track.

I'm sure frustration is mounting with all the losses that are piling up, and Pender has to do something about it.

Lots of big and winnable matches coming up for the Pendragons so Pender has to hang in there and continue to battle and fight hard.

The Pendragons still have a lot of matches left to play so this can still be a successful season for Pender, who I think still has time to get things turned around.

The Pendragons have to tell themselves they're going to win and make a run yet this season because it can definitely happen.

Pender just has to have a positive attitude and believe it can happen, and perhaps it will.

The Pendragons have to keep working hard and improving, and find a way to turn those close losses into wins.

Pender could easily be around .500 right now, but the close losses and tough schedule have really hurt the Pendragons.

Emerson-Hubbard swept at Winnebago and Ponca Triangulars

The Emerson-Hubbard Volleyball Team went 0-2 at the Winnebago Triangular Thursday night, falling 2-0 to BRLD and the host Indians, before also going 0-2 at the Ponca Triangular Tuesday night, losing 2-0 to Wynot and the host Indians.

The Pirates lost 25-13 in set one and 25-17 in set two to Winnebago.

Addison Mackling had 9 digs to lead Emerson-Hubbard.

The Wolverines topped the Pirates 25-17 in set one and 25-16 in set two.

Stephanie Ferrusca posted 13 digs while Mackling notched 9. Cashlyn Kramer and Madison Gunderson recorded 9 apiece while Brynn Schock totaled 7.

Ponca downed Emerson-Hubbard 25-8 in the first set, and 25-9 in the second set.

Ferrusca had 18 digs while Taylor Daum, Mackling, and Kramer registered 7 each.

The Blue Devils defeated the Pirates 25-7 in set one and 25-9 in set two.

Ferrusca posted 14 digs while Gunderson and Shock tallied 9 apiece. Kramer added 8.

The struggles continue for Emerson-Hubbard.

The Pirates (1-12) take on Pender (3-10) and Neligh-Oakdale (11-3) at the Pender Triangular Thursday night.

The Pendragons have lost six in a row, including a 3-0 decision at Humphrey/Lindsay Holy Family Tuesday night.

The Warriors, on the other hand, swept Bloomfield 2-0, but lost 2-1 to Plainview at their home Triangular Tuesday night.

I think Emerson-Hubbard is capable of competing with and beating both teams.

The Pirates are just lacking offensive production right now.

Emerson-Hubbard needs someone to step up and be a force offensively.

Hitting and passing has been a real struggle for the Pirates this season, and it has shown in the results of their matches.

Emerson-Hubbard is a solid defensive team, but defense only takes you so far in Volleyball.

The Pirates need someone to step up and take the reigns and control of this team.

A senior leader that says hey I'm tired of all the losing it's time we do something about it.

Emerson-Hubbard has really struggled since the beginning of the season, and needs something to change.

I don't know if being low on numbers and depth has taken it's toll on the Pirates or what, but it has been a real struggle for Emerson-Hubbard this season.

These are two very beatable teams though.

Pender has struggled lately themselves and the Warriors have had some close calls against and lost to teams they should roll.

So what I'm saying is there is the potential for the Pirates to pick up a win or two Thursday night.

Emerson-Hubbard just has to decide if they're going to do something about their struggles.

The Pirates need to rise from the ashes and figure things out cause there is a lot of Volleyball left to be played.

If Emerson-Hubbard could win one or both matches Thursday night I think it would be a huge step in the right direction in terms of getting the season turned around.

Wisner-Pilger finishes 2-1 at Wisner-Pilger September Classic

The Wisner-Pilger Volleyball Team went 2-1 at the Wisner-Pilger September Classic on Saturday, topping Pierce 2-0 and Laurel-Concord-Coleridge 2-1 before losing 2-0 to Chambers/Wheeler Central.

The Gators defeated the Bluejays 25-19 in set one and 25-22 in set two.

Erin McGuire had 11 set assists while Adi Meyer posted 7.

Wisner-Pilger won set one over the Bears 25-19, and took set three 25-22 while dropping set two 25-22.

Jordan Wegner finished with 11 kills, 8 ace serves, and 10 digs while Aspin Waterman totaled 7 kills and 10 digs. Meyer notched 8 digs while Reagan Scholting had 7. Emily Hatterman dished out 12 set assists while McGuire totaled 7.

The Renegades claimed the first set 25-17, and the second set 25-19.

McGuire tallied 8 set assists.

I thought the Gators played really good Volleyball against Pierce and Laurel-Concord-Coleridge. I felt Wisner-Pilger could of played better against CWC though.

The Gators (9-6) take on Madison (2-8) and BRLD (8-10) at their home Double Triangular Tuesday night.

The Dragons went 1-2 at the Classic on Saturday, losing 2-0 to Pierce and CWC, but beating Homer 2-1.

The Wolverines, on the other hand, swept Emerson-Hubbard and Winnebago 2-0 at the Winnebago Triangular Tuesday night.

I think BRLD is going to be very tough for Wisner-Pilger, but the Gators should have no trouble beating Madison.

The Wolverines have won 4 out of their last 5 and appear to be playing their best Volleyball of the season right now.

BRLD is hot at the moment, and has really picked things up as of late.

I feel Wisner-Pilger picked up things some on Saturday, and will need to pick things up even more Tuesday night if they hope to knock off the Wolverines.

The Gators need the same type of production they got from everyone against Laurel-Concord-Coleridge.

Wisner-Pilger really stepped up in that match and came through when it mattered most I feel.

The Gators will need to come through in the clutch again to knock off BRLD.

Wisner-Pilger has a good chance to win both of these matches, in my opinion.

If the Gators play up to their potential and capabilities I feel they've got a good shot to take both matches.

Wisner-Pilger has played a lot of matches lately, but the Gators have a long layoff after this so should come out firing on all cylinders ready to go.

Wisner-Pilger will have an entire week and then some to recuperate after Tuesday so the Gators have to go out there and give it all they got.

Wisner-Pilger can't hold anything back Tuesday night. The Gators have to go out there and let it rip and be determined to win.

Wisner-Pilger has to play with the heart of a champion, and take the fight to both BRLD and Madison.

Wisner-Pilger splits Pender and Battle Creek Triangulars

The Wisner-Pilger Volleyball Team is 2-2 in their last four matches, having lost 2-0 to Stanton before rebounding to beat Pender 2-1 at the Pender Triangular Tuesday night, and then losing 2-0 to Battle Creek and beating Crofton 2-1 at the Battle Creek Triangular Thursday night.

The Mustangs defeated the Gators 25-17 in set one and 25-9 in set two.

Emily Hatterman posted 7 set assists.

Wisner-Pilger took set one from the Pendragons 25-12, and won set three 25-15 after losing set two 25-21.

Jordan Wegner had 16 kills while Rachel Otten registered 9. Hatterman added 8 digs and 28 set assists.

The Warriors took set one from the Gators 25-14, but Wisner-Pilger won set two 25-22 and set three 25-17.

Wegner posted 11 kills while Reagan Scholting had 18 digs. Hatterman chipped in 8 set assists.

The Braves defeated the Gators 25-19 in set one, and 28-26 in set two.

Wegner and Scholting had 12 and 7 digs, respectively, while Erin McGuire totaled 13 set assists.

Kind of a struggle still for Wisner-Pilger although I thought the Gators started to get back to form some in set two against Battle Creek.

The Gators (7-5) take part in the Wisner-Pilger September Classic on Saturday.

The host Gators went 2-1 in this tournament last year, and I feel Wisner-Pilger can have success in it again this year.

The Gators are at home on Saturday and on Tuesday so perhaps returning to the friendly confines of the Swamp will help Wisner-Pilger return to form.

I look for the Gators to go out there and just play ball on Saturday.

Wisner-Pilger can't think of things too much, the Gators just have to go out there and play and execute.

I'm looking at this tournament as the tournament that gets Wisner-Pilger back on track and things headed back in the right direction.

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

If Wisner-Pilger can finish 2-1 or better I think that would be a good day.

The ultimate goal of course is to win the tournament, but if the Gators can play at a high level throughout then I think that could create some positive vibes and momentum even if they don't win it.

Wisner-Pilger just has to be loose and must go out there and be on top of their game.

If the Gators can start off the tournament with a win I think that will allow the rest of the day to go well.

If Wisner-Pilger starts with a loss then it will take a lot of encouragement and mental and physical toughness to get back up on that horse and bounce back.

The Gators have to come out on fire, and must get back to playing the type of Volleyball they played in the early part of the season.

Wisner-Pilger has to take pride in their play and want to do well, and I think that will be the case on Saturday.

I look for the Gators to string some wins together prior to the Lutheran High Northeast Triangular on October 4th with host Eagles and GACC.

This is a perfect and opportune time for Wisner-Pilger to get back on track, and I look for that to happen on Saturday.

GACC 3-2 in last five matches

The Guardian Angels Central Catholic Volleyball Team is 3-2 in their last five matches, falling 3-0 at Wayne last Tuesday night and 3-1 at home to O'Neill last Thursday night in action heard on 107.9 the Bull before downing Homer 3-0 at home Tuesday night and Arlington and Oakland-Craig 2-0 at the Oakland-Craig Triangular Thursday night.

The Blue Devils won set one 25-23, set two 25-14, and set three 25-21.

Sophia Hass had 14 kills and 12 digs while Hanna Knobbe totaled 31 digs. Reece Snodgrass posted 11 digs and 16 set assists while Ally Plagge and Meghan Brunsing notched 10 digs and 11 set assists, respectively.

In the O'Neill match, things started off promising for Central Catholic, who took set one 25-13.

The Eagles took control from there, however, winning set two 25-13, and sets three and four 25-21.

Head Coach Kate Hagemann says her team's mental toughness has to be better. "At some point you hope that we start to improve a little bit. I think we have it in us physically. I know we have the skills, and I know we have what it takes to continue to improve and get better. Right now I think it's a lot of mental, and we're just mentally weak right now, and mentally weak teams don't find ways to win. And right now we're finding ways to lose and hurt ourselves and make a lot of errors. And at some point we just talked about after the game they'll have to make that decision. We have to practice harder, we got to warm up harder, we got to play harder, and if we do those things I know that each of the girls have it within them to be a better player."

Hass led the Bluejays with a team-high 13 kills and 18 digs while Evelyn Wooldrik notched 8 kills. Knobbe finished with 24 digs while Snodgrass had 14 digs and 14 set assists. Plagge registered 14 digs while Brunsing added 7 digs and 10 set assists.

GACC downed Homer 25-10 in set one, 25-18 in set two, and 25-8 in set three.

Hass finished with 9 kills and 18 digs while Brooklyn Bailey recorded 8 kills. Knobbe chipped in 22 digs while Snodgrass posted 10 digs and 15 set assists. Erica Engelmeyer notched 9 digs.

The Bluejays topped Oakland-Craig 27-25 in set one and 25-15 in set two.

Hass led the way with 12 kills and 12 digs while Knobbe had 17 kills. Brunsing totaled 15 digs and 7 set assists while Plagge and Snodgrass compiled 13 and 12 digs, respectively.

GACC downed the Eagles 25-17 in the first set, and 25-20 in the second set.

Knobbe had a team-high 17 digs while Hass added 11. Brunsing recorded 10 digs and 12 set assists while Plagge totaled 8 digs.

Good play from the Bluejays this week. I feel like GACC is getting better.

The Bluejays (7-5) host Bishop Neumann Tuesday night.

The Cavaliers are very polished having handed Stanton their only loss.

This will be a huge challenge for GACC without a doubt.

The Bluejays really need to get after things and play well.

GACC is young, but I think this match against Neumann will help these younger players grow and mature at the very least.

A lot can be learned from playing a team like Neumann, and I look for the Bluejays to give the Cavaliers everything they've got.

I think GACC can compete in this match, and give Neumann a game.

I don't know if the Bluejays are at a point yet where they can knock off teams like the Cavaliers, but anything can happen so GACC has to remain optimistic.

Games aren't played on paper, and if there's a team that can upset Neumann it is the Bluejays.

We'll see what happens, and if the progress GACC made and the momentum they gained this week carries over to Tuesday night.

I thought the Bluejays played well this week, even if they did beat teams below .500.

This will be GACC's toughest match of the year without a doubt though.

Wayne and Humphrey/Lindsay Holy Family were very tough, but the Cavaliers are the cream of the crop.

The Bluejays are Volleyball royalty too though so I fully expect GACC to come out firing on all pistons and cylinders.

The Bluejays need to step up their play in this match and play well.

GACC has to play better than they have all season if they hope to have a chance in this one.

Neumann is a great team, and it will take an extraordinary effort from the Bluejays to get the job done.

Anything can happen though as that's why they play the games so GACC has to go out there and do what I know they are capable of, which is win.

Tekamah-Herman goes 0-3 at own Invite, picks up first win of year over Madison

The Tekamah-Herman Volleyball Team lost 2-0 to BRLD and Omaha Roncalli, and 2-1 to Fort Calhoun at their own Invite on Saturday before knocking off Madison 3-1 on the road Tuesday night for their first win of the year.

The Wolverines won set one 25-12 and set two 25-15.

The Crimson Pride downed the Tigers 25-15 in the first set, and 25-14 in the second set.

The Pioneers won set one 25-17 and set three 25-11 while Tekamah-Herman won set two 25-18.

The Tigers took the first set against the Dragons 25-16 and the second set 25-21 while dropping the third set 25-21. Tekamah-Herman won the fourth set 25-20.

I thought the match against Fort Calhoun prompted better play for the Tigers against the Dragons, and it really showed Tuesday night.

Tekamah-Herman (1-14) battles Stanton (15-1) and Oakland-Craig (4-10) at the Stanton Triangular Tuesday night in action that can be heard on 107.9 the Bull.

The Mustangs swept Pender and Wisner-Pilger 2-0 at the Pender Triangular Tuesday night while the Knights beat Arlington 2-0, but lost 2-0 to GACC at their home Triangular Thursday night.

I think the Tigers have a good chance to compete with and beat Oakland-Craig.

Stanton is a great team, and I don't know what the Tigers can do against them having already lost to them once 2-0, but Tekamah-Herman has to go out there expecting to win and must give things their best shot.

I really think the Fort Calhoun match was a building block for the Tigers and led them to the win over Madison Thursday night.

Now I look for Tekamah-Herman to use the win over the Dragons as a springboard to more wins and success Tuesday night.

I really think the Tigers can beat the Knights as I feel Oakland-Craig is beatable and vulnerable.

I'm sure Tekamah-Herman wants to win both matches, but I'm sure the Tigers really want to beat the Knights more specifically.

I'm not saying Tekamah-Herman should put all their energy and focus into the Oakland-Craig match, but something tells me the Tigers are going to be up for that one.

I'm really excited to see what Tekamah-Herman's play of their past two matches leads to Tuesday night.

It appears some of these players have grown up before our eyes, and this team is gaining confidence and consistency.

The Tigers have to be optimistic and inspired Tuesday night.

Tekamah-Herman has to come out and play their best Volleyball of the season, and do everything possible to win both matches.

If the Tigers can beat the Knights and take a set or at least make a set close against the Mustangs I think Tekamah-Herman could take away quite a few positives in that case.

All the action can be heard on the Bull beginning at 5:30 p.m.

It should be a great night of Volleyball all the way around.

Logan View/Scribner-Snyder 5-2 in last 7 matches

The Logan View/Scribner-Snyder Volleyball Team is 5-2 in their last 7 matches, winning 3-2 at home over Pender last Tuesday night in action heard on 107.9 the Bull, falling 3-0 at home to Howells-Dodge last Thursday night, beating Schuyler, Yutan, and Homer 3-0 at the Logan View Invite on Saturday, and then losing 2-0 to Humphrey/Lindsay Holy Family before beating West Point-Beemer 2-1 at the LVSS Triangular Tuesday night.

Pender came out strong early, winning the first set 25-18. Logan View/Scribner-Snyder rallied to take the second set 25-21.

The two teams recorded identical sets over the next two frames, with the Pendragons winning set three 25-23, and the Raiders taking set four 25-23.

In the deciding fifth set, LVSS was able to win in thrilling fashion, 17-15.

Shaylin Daugherty was the S&W Welding Player of the Game for Logan View/Scribner-Snyder, and Sadie Lamplot received the award for Pender.

Ashley Uhing of LVSS was the Charterwest Sportsmanship Award recipient.

Taylor Ruwe had 14 kills and 18 digs while Daugherty totaled 13 kills. Uhing added 10 kills and 28 digs while Emily Lewin posted 8 kills and 16 digs. Reagan Klein had 21 digs and 40 set assists while Dream Daugherty and Kaylin Niewohner totaled 14 and 11 digs, respectively.

The Jaguars won set one 25-16, set two 27-25, and set three 25-21.

Ruwe led the way with 10 kills while Shaylin Daugherty had 9. Dream Daugherty added 8 kills and 9 digs. Lewin had 12 digs while Klein totaled 7 digs and 26 set assists. Uhing chipped in 7 digs.

The Raiders topped the Chieftains 25-18 in set one and 25-8 in set two.

Uhing finished with 7 kills while Dream Daugherty notched 8 digs. Klein registered 19 set assists.

Logan View/Scribner-Snyder beat the Knights 25-21 in the first set and 25-15 in the second set.

Ruwe recorded 10 kills while Lewin had 8. Uhing notched 9 digs while Klein totaled 19 set assists.

Logan View/Scribner-Snyder defeated the Warriors 25-22 in the first set, and 25-16 in the second set.

Lewin posted 8 kills and 7 digs while Ruwe contributed 9 digs. Uhing compiled 7 digs while Klein dished out 14 set assists.

The Bulldogs defeated the Raiders 25-17 in set one and 25-14 in set two.

Uhing had 8 digs while Ruwe totaled 7.

LVSS won set one 25-16 and set three 25-18 over the Cadets with West Point-Beemer taking set two 25-23.

Ruwe posted 9 kills and 11 digs while Lewin compiled 12. Uhing and Dream Daugherty registered 9 digs apiece while Klein tallied 20 set assists.

The Raiders continue to play great Volleyball. LVSS got through this stretch where they had a lot of games and performed well. Hats off to the Raiders.

Logan View/Scribner-Snyder (11-6) takes on Clarkson/Leigh at home Tuesday night.

The Patriots are a heck of a ball club who made state last year.

Talk about two teams who have gotten a lot better lately.

This should be a great match between two very good ball clubs.

Both teams have talent and experience, and there should be a lot of good, high level Volleyball played Tuesday night.

Shaylin Daugherty has to use her height to her advantage against Clarkson/Leigh, and Ruwe, Lewin, and Uhing need to continue to play well offensively as well.

It's not just about offense either. The Raiders are a great defensive team as well.

It has truly been a team effort for Logan View/Scribner-Snyder this year, and the same could be said for the Patriots.

This should be an outstanding match between two programs who have come a long ways in the last year or two.

I look for both teams to really get after one another, and make this one very competitive.

The Patriots beat Howells-Dodge in five sets to open the season while the Raiders lost 3-0 to the Jaguars, but I don't think the Howells-Dodge match was LVSS's best effort.

I feel the Raiders will be much more competitive against Clarkson/Leigh than they were against Howells-Dodge.

LVSS can definitely win this match too. Things could really go either way, in my opinion.

The Raiders are 5-2 at home this season as they play their 8th match in a row on their home court so I'm sure Logan View/Scribner-Snyder would love to top off their current home stand with a big signature win.

The Raiders have some nice wins this year already, but a win over the Patriots would be LVSS's biggest of the year without a doubt.

The Raiders have to go out there and make it happen, and play a great match Tuesday night.

Everyone has to be on fire like they have been lately for Logan View/Scribner-Snyder.

Pender falls to Stanton and Wisner-Pilger at home Triangular

The Pender Volleyball Team lost 2-0 to Stanton and 2-1 to Wisner-Pilger at their home Triangular Tuesday night.

The Mustangs downed the Pendragons 25-9 in set one and 25-6 in set two.

The Gators won set one 25-12 and set three 25-15 while dropping set two 25-21.

Rylee Lehmkuhl had 10 digs while Ashley Ostrand had 8. Zoey Lehmkuhl registered 7 digs and 8 set assists.

I thought Pender played well against Wisner-Pilger, and responded well to the Stanton loss.

The Pendragons (3-8) travel to Winside (4-7) to take on the Wildcats Monday night.

Winside won 3-0 at home over Wausa Tuesday night.

I look for Pender to win this match given how tough their schedule has been.

The Pendragons play a lot of C-1 and C-2 schools while the Wildcats play primarily D-1 and D-2 Schools.

I think that makes a big difference.

This should be a good bounce back win for Pender.

I thought the Pendragons played well and responded well against the Gators Tuesday night, and look for that play to carry over into Monday night.

This match is a great opportunity for a win for Pender, and the Pendragons can't let this one get or slip away.

Pender has a big week and some tough matches next week so the Pendragons could do themselves a favor by sweeping this match.

Pender plays matches on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday so the Pendragons could definitely benefit from playing just 3 sets Monday night.

I'm sure Pender will do whatever they need to to pick up a win, but a short match would be beneficial for the Pendragons on Monday without a doubt.

A win over Winside on Monday would kind of set the tone for the rest of the week too I feel.

If Pender can get that one I think it will give them a shot and boost of confidence heading into the rest of the week.

The Pendragons really need a win Monday night.

I can't stress it enough...Pender has to play with confidence and a sense of urgency.

The Pendragons desperately need this win over the Wildcats.

Pender has lost four in a row and could really use a win to get off the schneid.

I think the Pendragons will do just that and find a way to win Monday night.

Howells-Dodge beats Logan View/Scribner-Snyder, falls to Lutheran High Northeast

The Howells-Dodge Volleyball Team swept Logan View/Scribner-Snyder 3-0 on the road Thursday night before losing 3-0 at home to Lutheran High Northeast Tuesday night.

The Jaguars downed the Raiders 25-16, 27-25, and 25-21.

Erin Prusa had 9 kills while Brooklyn Macholan totaled 7. Taya VanLengen had 14 digs while Tonya Brester totaled 8.

The Eagles won set one 25-12, set two 25-13, and set three 25-20.

Jessi Brester had 10 kills while Prusa registered 9. VanLengen added 10 digs while
Tonya Brester posted 7. Alyssa Coufal tallied 23 set assists.

Great effort by Howells-Dodge against Logan View/Scribner-Snyder. The Jaguars struggled against the Eagles for whatever reason though.

Howells-Dodge (9-4) takes on BRLD and Madison at the Wisner-Pilger Double Triangular Tuesday night.

I feel these matches are chances for two wins for the Jaguars.

I would honestly be surprised if Howells-Dodge lost to either team.

I guess anything is possible though, especially after this past Tuesday night, but I fully expect the Jaguars to bounce back and take care of business.

Howells-Dodge has some big matches coming up so the Jaguars have to use these two matches as matches to work out anything they're struggling with to fix and fine tune for the Clarkson/Leigh Tournament, Humphrey/Lindsay Holy Family Quad, and East Husker Conference Tournament.

Howells-Dodge is a good team that I think just simply had an off night against LHNE.

I look for the Jaguars to rebound and bounce back, and turn in two strong performances Tuesday night.

Howells-Dodge needs to continue to get good production from Prusa, VanLengen, Tonya Brester, and Coufal.

The Jaguars have a lot of talent on this team, and could probably use increased production from other players as well.

If Jessi Brester and Macholan could ever develop some consistency offensively I think you could see this team reach new heights.

Howells-Dodge is a nice team and has been very impressive at times this season, but they tend to have an off match every now and then, although I think that's with any team.

The Jaguars need to continue to right the ship and keep working on becoming a consistently great team.

If Howells-Dodge could get to a point where they're playing great Volleyball all the time they could really go on a tear.

The Jaguars are facing a young BRLD Team on Tuesday, and a Madison team that lost to then winless Tekamah-Herman so I would be very shocked if Howells-Dodge lost either match.

The Wolverines could scare and challenge Howells-Dodge though. The Jaguars have to watch out for and be wary of BRLD for sure.

Stanton 7-0 in last 7 matches

The Stanton Volleyball Team is 7-0 in their last 7 matches, defeating Norfolk Catholic and Boone Central/Newman Grove 2-0 at their home Triangular on Thursday, beating Clarkson/Leigh and Arlington 2-0, and Hartington Cedar Catholic 2-1 at the Stanton Invite on Saturday, before topping Pender and Wisner-Pilger 2-0 at the Pender Triangular Tuesday night.

The Mustangs downed the Cardinals 25-4 in set one and 25-12 in set two.

Liz Christensen had 10 ace serves while Jaiden Hartl and Jessie Brandl totaled 10 and 8 digs, respectively. Bree Burtwhistle notched 15 set assists.

Stanton topped the Knights 25-19 in the first set and 25-18 in the second set.

Burtwhistle had 12 kills, 9 digs, and 13 set assists while recording her 1,000th career kill while Brandl totaled 10 kills and 12 digs. Reba Waskowiak posted 8 digs while Jasmine Kment had 7. Makenna Espinoza registered 12 set assists.

The Mustangs rolled the Eagles 25-9 in set one and 25-10 in set two.

Espinoza had 8 digs and 7 set assists while Brandl totaled 7 digs. Burtwhistle added 12 set assists.

Stanton won 25-23 over the Trojans in set one, and then won set three 25-20 after losing set two 26-24.

Burtwhistle posted 14 kills, 9 digs, and 16 set assists while Brandl had 13 kills and 12 digs. Waskowiak chipped in 10 kills while Christensen compiled 7. Hartl added 15 digs while Espinoza dished out 24 set assists.

The Mustangs knocked off the Patriots 25-12 in the first set, and 25-16 in the second set.

Stanton defeated the Pendragons 25-9 in set one, and 25-6 in set two.

Brandl had 10 digs while Hartl notched 8. Burtwhistle posted 16 set assists.

The Mustangs cruised past the Gators 25-17 in the first set, and 25-9 in the second set.

Burtwhisle contributed 8 kills, 8 digs, and 8 set assists while Brandl had 17 digs. Hartl added 10 while Espinoza recorded 9 digs and 11 set assists.

Stanton is playing Great Volleyball right now. The Mustangs appear to be in State Championship form already.

Stanton (15-1) hosts Tekamah-Herman (1-14) and Oakland-Craig (4-10) at their home Triangular Tuesday night in action that can be heard on 107.9 the Bull.

The Tigers won their first match of the season this past Tuesday night, downing Madison 3-1 on the road.

The Knights won 2-0 over Arlington, but lost 2-0 to GACC at their home Triangular Thursday night.

The Mustangs should beat both of these teams similar to the way they knocked off Pender and Wisner-Pilger.

As long as Stanton keeps playing the way they have been they should have no trouble winning both of these matches.

The Mustangs are still going to have to work for it though. You can bet Stanton will get Oakland-Craig and Tekamah-Herman's best shot.

The Mustangs have to be sharp and on point, and play like championship teams do and would.

Stanton has to respect both opponents, and try and take both of them out of their game.

The Mustangs have to continue to build their resume and sharpen their skills.

Stanton has some tough matches coming up at the end of the regular season so the Mustangs need to use these two matches as matches to continue to play great and show off their skills.

I don't know if Stanton can play any better than they have been.

The Mustangs flat out dominated both matches on Tuesday, I mean just dominated.

Stanton is a great team, and this could very well be one of the best teams in school history, if not the best.

The Mustangs have to remain humble and must keep their eye on the prize, and I fully expect Stanton to do that.

The Mustangs have already beaten the Tigers once, and I don't see that being an issue come Tuesday night either.

The Knights could pose more of a challenge given their talent, but I fully expect Stanton to be ready and well prepared for that match.

The Mustangs need these two matches to keep honing their skills and playing at a high level.

Stanton has to keep the ball rolling and continue their mastery of the Northeast Nebraska area Tuesday night.

Tuesday's matches are two the Mustangs should dominate and win easily, and I expect that to be the case.

Things get underway at 5:30 p.m. on the Bull.

Clarkson/Leigh 3-1 in last four matches

The Clarkson/Leigh Volleyball Team finished 2-1 at the Stanton Invite on Saturday before downing Twin River 3-1 on the road Tuesday night.

The Patriots defeated Twin River 2-0 the first time around on Saturday 25-14 in set one and 25-18 in set two.

Hannah Kasik had 11 kills while Ashlynn Novotny posted 8. Holly Kuhr added 9 digs while Kaegan Held had 7 digs and 19 set assists.

Clarkson/Leigh fell 2-0 to the host Mustangs on Saturday, losing set one 25-12, and set two 25-16.

The Patriots topped Battle Creek 2-1 on Saturday, winning 25-22 in set one and 25-21 in set three while losing set two 26-24.

Novotny had 13 kills while Kasik totaled 8 kills and 8 digs. Beth Wiese chipped in 7 kills while Halee Steffensmeier notched 15 digs. Sara McEvoy added 14 digs while Held posted 10 digs and 31 set assists.

In round 2 versus Twin River, the Titans won set one 25-18 only to see Clarkson/Leigh take set two 25-18, set three 25-21, and set four 25-22.

Novotny totaled 11 kills while Wiese had 10. Steffensmeier managed 36 digs while McEvoy and Kasik totaled 25 and 19, respectively. Held had 11 digs and 26 set assists.

The Patriots continue to play superb Volleyball. Stanton continues to give Clarkson/Leigh fits though for whatever reason.

Clarkson/Leigh (7-3) takes part in the Hampton Tournament on Saturday.

I thought this tournament really got Patriot Volleyball on the map, and was the team's coming party last year seeing as they won the tournament.

I think Clarkson/Leigh is even better this year than they were last year, and I look for the Patriots to make this tournament memorable once again.

I think Clarkson/Leigh has all the tools and pieces in place to win this tournament again.

The Patriots have to be ready to go from the start of the tournament until the very end.

Clarkson/Leigh has to continue to make memories that will last a lifetime.

The Patriots have already done so many good things this season, and I look for the winning to continue on Saturday.

Clarkson/Leigh has to go out there and have fun, and enjoy this time with their teammates.

These are the kind of matches and moments that will create memories that will last a lifetime.

These girls already work so well together and play such good team Volleyball that I believe they can be successful against anyone they play on Saturday.

It's somewhat of a long road trip, but I'm sure these girls are anticipating playing some good Volleyball on Saturday.

Clarkson/Leigh has to try and be calm and relaxed the night before and get a good night's rest although that is never easy.

The Patriots have to be fired up and motivated, yet calm, loose, and relaxed during the course of the day.

This is Clarkson/Leigh's chance to make another statement in the East Central part of the State, and show people they are still for real.

The Patriots have a very nice team once again this year, and I look for Clarkson/Leigh to go out there and play great Volleyball on Saturday.

It should be a very memorable day and weekend for the Patriots.

Clarkson/Leigh has to go out there and make all their hopes and dreams come true with another championship.

Back-to-back Hampton Tournament Championships would be quite the feat, and the Patriots are definitely capable of making it happen.

West Point-Beemer 2-4 in last 6 matches

The West Point-Beemer Volleyball Team is 2-4 in their last six matches, sweeping Madison 3-0 at home Thursday night before beating Arlington 2-0 and losing 2-1 to Battle Creek and Ponca at the Stanton Invite on Saturday, and then falling 2-0 to Humphrey/Lindsay Holy Family and 2-1 to Logan View/Scribner-Snyder at the LVSS Triangular Tuesday night.

The Cadets downed the Dragons 25-23, 25-13, and 25-15.

Kendra Paasch led the way with 12 kills while Abby Kaup totaled 11. Sidney Swanson notched 10 kills and 11 digs while Brooke Haase registered 7 kills. Brooklyn Weddle led the way in digs with 21 with Andrea Hoffman posting 12. Sierra Kile recorded 10 digs and 41 set assists.

The Braves downed the Cadets 25-22 in set one before West Point-Beemer won set two 25-21. Battle Creek claimed set three 25-14.

Swanson had 11 kills and 16 digs while Paasch notched 7 kills. Weddle added 14 digs while Kile totaled 11 digs and 25 set assists. Hoffman posted 7 digs.

The Cadets took set one from the Indians 25-22 before Ponca won set two 25-20 and set three 25-21.

Swanson registered 13 kills and 19 digs while Brooke Haase put down 10 kills. Weddle had 20 digs while Ashton Troyer registered 16. Kile compiled 8 digs and 43 set assists.

West Point-Beemer defeated the Eagles 25-18 in set one and 25-19 in set two.

Swanson finished with 7 kills, 7 ace serves, and 8 digs while Weddle and Troyer recorded 9 and 7 digs, respectively. Kile chipped in 23 set assists.

The Bulldogs upended the Cadets 25-15 in set one and 25-23 in set two.

The Raiders won set one over West Point-Beemer 25-16 before the Cadets took set two 25-18. Logan View/Scribner-Snyder prevailed in set three, 25-23.

I feel like West Point-Beemer has played good Volleyball, they've just played some tough teams and came up a little short.

The Cadets (8-8) host North Bend Central (4-6) Thursday night.

The Tigers won 3-2 at home over Oakland-Craig Tuesday night.

This match figures to be close and could go either way.

I'm leaning towards a Cadet win since West Point-Beemer is at home and swept Wisner-Pilger, who the Tigers beat 3-1.

Granted North Bend Central played the Gators on the road and the Cadets had Wisner-Pilger at home, but still I give West Point-Beemer the edge with them being at home.

That and the Cadets are more experienced and seasoned.

It won't be easy though as the Tigers are well coached and have a good group of girls who are talented.

You know North Bend Central will come to play so West Point-Beemer has to be ready.

The Cadets have to be prepared for a long grind mentally and physically.

The Tigers went toe to toe and prevailed against the Knights in 5 Tuesday night so North Bend Central definitely knows what it's like to go the distance.

It should be a great, compelling, and entertaining match.

Hopefully the West Point-Beemer fans really get behind their Cadets cause I'm sure the players could really use the fan support.

West Point-Beemer has a golden opportunity to beat the Tigers, something they haven't done since 2008.

It's been 10 years since the Cadets have beaten North Bend Central so you know the Tigers won't go down easily and without a fight.

West Point-Beemer has to take their frustrations of losing close matches to good teams out on North Bend Central.

I wouldn't say the Cadets have struggled lately, I would just say they have come up a little short against all these tough teams on their schedule.

We will find out if West Point-Beemer can change that trend Thursday night.

North Bend Central wins in 5 over Oakland-Craig

NORTH BEND – The North Bend Central volleyball team hosted Oakland-Craig in a five-set thriller heard on 107.9 The Bull Tuesday night, Sept. 18.

Oakland-Craig won the first set 25-20, with the Tigers taking sets two and three, 25-20 and 25-21.

The Knights pulled away to win set four 25-17, forcing a deciding fifth set.

NBC held an early 3-0 lead and later pulled away to win set five 15-10, claiming the match 3-2.

North Bend’s Megan Ortmeier and Oakland-Craig’s Bailey Helzer were the S&W Welding Players of the Game.

Good win for the Tigers. North Bend Central hung in there and kept fighting, and prevailed for a big victory.

The Tigers improve to 4-6 with the win, and will travel to West Point-Beemer (8-8) on Thursday.

The Cadets lost 2-0 to Humphrey/Lindsay Holy Family and 2-1 to Logan View/Scribner-Snyder at the LVSS Triangular Tuesday night.

West Point-Beemer has faced and lost to some good and tough teams lately. North Bend Central has won a couple in a row and is playing good Volleyball right now, in my opinion.

This should be a really good match, and one that I think the Tigers have the potential to win.

The Cadets probably have the edge in experience and have some good talent while North Bend Central has some good talent as well, but also players that are raw and unproven.

The Tigers are young and inexperienced, but they're getting there.

To go into West Point and pick up a win over the Cadets would be a really good win.

And it can happen too...North Bend Central just has to trust and believe in the process.

Rome wasn't built overnight, and the Tigers aren't going to become a great team again overnight.

A lot of these girls are playing varsity volleyball for the first time, and it has just taken them some time to transition.

With that said, it appears North Bend Central is starting to figure some things out.

The Tigers have been playing better Volleyball the last couple of weeks, and I think this match with West Point-Beemer is a toss up.

The match being in West Point is going to be a definite challenge for North Bend Central for sure though.

It will be interesting to see how well the Tigers handle a tough road environment.

You can bet the crowd will be electric and really into it, and that's not just the Cadet fans.

I fully expect North Bend Central fans to get after this team and get loud.

This is a big match and there's lots of talent on both teams, and it should be a highly entertaining and intriguing Volleyball match.

The Tigers have to hang in there and keep fighting no matter what happens.

A game is never over until it's over so North Bend Central has to keep the faith and keep going at it hard the whole time no matter what.

Oakland-Craig sweeps Yutan, falls in five at North Bend Central

The Oakland-Craig Volleyball Team is 1-1 in their last two matches, sweeping Yutan 3-0 at home Thursday night before falling 3-2 at North Bend Central Tuesday night in action heard on 107.9 the Bull.

The Knights downed the Chieftains 25-15, 25-16, and 25-19.

Oakland-Craig won the first set over North Bend Central, 25-20, with the Tigers taking sets two and three, 25-20 and 25-21.

The Knights pulled away to win set four 25-17, forcing a deciding fifth set.

NBC held an early 3-0 lead and later pulled away to win set five 15-10.

North Bend’s Megan Ortmeier and Oakland-Craig’s Bailey Helzer were the S&W Welding Players of the Game.

Abbie Carmichael of O-C was the Charterwest Sportsmanship Award recipient.

Great match for the Knights on Thursday, and a great effort Tuesday night.

Oakland-Craig (3-9) hosts Arlington (1-9) and GACC (5-5) in a Triangular Thursday night.

The Bluejays swept Homer 3-0 at home Tuesday night while the Eagles went 0-3 at the Stanton Invite on Saturday.

I fully expect the Knights to beat Arlington and challenge GACC.

I feel Oakland-Craig has come on a bit lately, and started to figure a few things out.

The Knights just have to figure out how to come through in the clutch and not have untimely serves into the net.

Oakland-Craig should compete well in this Triangular, there's no reason to think they won't.

The Bluejays figure to be tough so the Knights have to try and slow down freshman phenom Sophia Hass and others.

Oakland-Craig has to come out inspired and flat out ready to get after it.

The Knights have to play tremendous energy, enthusiasm, toughness, grit, fire, tenacity, and mental and physical toughness.

Oakland-Craig has to defend their home court and take pride in their play.

The Knights have talent they just need to go out there and string some wins together.

This is a key Triangular for Oakland-Craig and an opportunity for the Knights to really do some damage.

GACC is probably looking at these matches as opportunities for two big wins as well so Oakland-Craig has to play harder and want it more than the Bluejays.

The Knights have to fight, fight, fight, and kill the ball with authority.

Minimizing mistakes and self inflicted errors is going to be key for Oakland-Craig, in my opinion.

The Knights can't give away free points to GACC or Arlington for that matter, Oakland-Craig has to make the Bluejays and Eagles work for and earn their points.

The Knights have to think positive about the way they played Tuesday night, and let the good things they did against North Bend Central carry over into Thursday night.

At the same time Oakland-Craig has to use the loss and coming up short as fuel to the fire against GACC and Arlington.