A 20-win season is nothing to hang your hat on but the Tri County Northeast Wolfpack volleyball program will be looking to up their level of play in 2025.
The Allen/Emereson-Hubbard cooperative agreement for volleyball first began in 2020.
Carly Dickens will be taking charge of the Wolfpack program under her first year as the head coach. She previously spent the past two seasons as an assistant.
On staff will also be Haley Stapleton and Callie Anderson leading the 17-member team.
The two seniors are Kiya Tornez and Samantha Rastede.
Over the summer, Tri County Northeast volleyball had the opportunity to participate in a weight lifting program, open gyms and summer league.
"We had a dedicated group that would come to weights every morning and work hard," said Dickens. "During open gyms, I knew that the girls were there to push themselves to prepare for the season. We also participated in a volleyball league in Norfolk."
Once fall practices took over on August 11, the team worked on fundamentals and quick defensive movement.
The coaching staff has also been emphasizing effort, communication and hustle.
The Allen/Emerson-Hubbard co-op is coming off at 20-10 season
The team will be without a six rotation middle, libero and a front row rightside hitter due to graduation but will still return five starters.
"Sam Rastede, Kiya Tornez, Joslyn Mackling, Briley Anderson and Ally Belt all started last year," said Dickens. "These girls all lead with positive action on the court. I am looking for them to continue throughout the season. Joslyn Mackling has stepped in as vocal leader on the team."
Freshmen Delany Fucher and Cora Ridenour will also contribute to the team.
A jamboree triangular is set for Monday, August 25 in Allen at 5:30 p.m. with Randolph and Wynot.
The coaching staff is looking, "to continue to come into the gym and practice hard every day...This season as a team we have really been focussing on attacking every chance we get and having a big block."
The two seniors of Samantha Rastede (setter - Allen) and Kiya Tornez (outside hitter - Emerson-Hubbard) joined the Wayne Herald during the Tri County Northeast media day held on August 20 in Emerson (volleyball, girls golf, XC).
Rastede highlighted what she is most excited about.
"To see all of our talent and actually see the entire team be competitive and really push forward."
Defense and serve receive during morning practices and open gyms were key this past summer.
Team goals include better communication, playing with confidence and learn to keep pushing the entire match.
Both seniors wanted the younger teammates to expand on what they have and keep showing up.
"Never think down," said Tornez. "I always did and never accelerated to when I wanted to show my best. I want them to always think up because I see potential."
Tri County Northeast volleyball season will get underway on Thursday August 28 at Winnebago at 5:30 p.m. Their home opener is set for September 4 hosting Humphrey-Lindsay and Homer for a triangular starting at 5:15 p.m. in Emerson.
Both Rastede and Tornez appreciate the fan support.
"Thank you a lot," said Rastede. "You guys really help our team as you support throughout the season."
"I couldn't do it without the best supporters here," said Tornez. "It wouldn't make this happen."
Coach Dickens wanted to also share a message about the previous head coach.
"I’d like to thank Coach Cheryl Greve for her time and dedication over the years," said Dickens. "She has built a solid program that I am thankful to take over."
