HVA motivated for 2026 slate
Coming into the 2026 season, that loss brings plenty of motivation.
“With having such a veteran group, that’s definitely been in the back of their minds — what that feeling is and that we don’t want that to be how we feel again at the end of this year,” head coach Eric Boden said. “We want to push for region, sub-state and state. It’s definitely a motivator for the group we have coming back.”
The Lady Hawks return four varsity starters this year, having only lost two to graduation.
“We’ve seen really good development in our gym in terms of people stepping and filling the roles they need to,” Boden said. “It’s a dog fight in our district, so that’s what we’re preparing for, to duke it out and get us where we need to be.”
Several players will lead that charge, including multiple accolade-earning standouts who return from last year’s squad.
Caroline Clauss returns as a senior setter, having earned second-team All-District last season.
Madelyn Jerrell brings similar experience as a junior middle blocker. She earned Sophomore of the Year last season and was named first-team All-District in her second year with the program.
“To return her is really exciting,” Boden said of Jerrell. “She’s taking on a bigger role of leading more.”
Lilly Ringle comes back as a junior libero, as Boden noted she has “grown exponentially in that role.”
“And this year, we think she’s gotten even better,” he said.
Ringle is one part of a strong HVA defense, which fuels the Hawks in every match.
Parker Lamb also returns after a strong newcomer season, being named Freshman of the Year in their district.
“To have her back after that freshman experience has been critical, so we are excited to see that come to fruition this year,” Boden said.
Sara Dean is expected to log plenty of varsity minutes this season as well, as she put together a strong rookie campaign.
Now, Boden hopes all those pieces will coalesce for a season that begins Monday, Aug. 17, against Clinton.
“We’ve had some people step up, so we have some freshmen from last year playing significant roles,” he said. “That’s exciting for the development of the program. To see them step up and play that role is a testament to what our team is doing in the gym and how hard they’re working.”
