The #14 (2A) Grundy Center volleyball team will host a quad with AGWSR, #12 (2A) Hudson and #14 (4A) Waverly-Shell Rock to begin the season Tuesday.
Coming off a Class 2A state tournament appearance last year, the Spartans have a fair amount of ground to make up with two returning starters. Senior middle hitter Kayden Muller says last year’s run to state set a strong foundation for the program, and she’s excited to take on a senior leadership role.
“I think it helps set a solid foundation for a good work ethic, because the people that were in the gym last year, we saw how hard we worked and I think it’ll care over into this season,” Muller says. “I want to bring high energy and confidence because they don’t all have the same touches that we do. So I think carrying that confidence can carry over to them and will help us on the court.”
Head Coach Lori Willis says facing two NICL opponents right away is a great opportunity for growth.
“Any time that we can play an NICL team, it’s going to be good,” Willis says. “But it is noted that we graduated pretty heavy. Class 2A and the NICL graduated heavy. But again, all those people, once you get that program built, they just kind of step in and become those leaders and fill those next shoes. So I think any time that we’re going to play in the conference is going to be good.”
AGWSR is coming off a regional final appearance last year and will look to start strong in their first season in Class 2A under Jill Smith. Hudson and Waverly Shell-Rock each boast a fair amount of returning varsity talent.
Action will begin at 5:30 p.m. in both the main gym and south gym at Grundy Center High School.
