The Spike: Wagner rides experienced core to fast start, six straight wins
Sep. 4—The Spike is the Mitchell Republic's regular look at high school volleyball in the Mitchell area, highlighting the top teams, players and accomplishments. WAGNER, S.D. — A year after making their way to the Class A state volleyball tournament, the Wagner Red Raiders are showing early signs that the experience gained on that stage could pay dividends this season. Wagner has raced out to ...
Wagner, South Dakota — After finishing eighth in the South Dakota Prep Media Class A volleyball poll after last season's state tournament, the Wagner Red Raiders have quickly risen to a 6-1 start, winning six consecutive matches. The team's strong beginning can be attributed to their experienced core returning from last year's tournament team, which included senior middle hitters Ravyn Medricky, Brianna Fuchs and Mateya Bruguier, as well as junior outside hitter Hannah Holzbauer and senior setter Braxton Nedved.
Head coach Stacey Knebel highlighted the leadership and versatility within the team, noting that the seniors have been stepping up and taking on more responsibility during timeouts. Knebel praised senior setter Braxton Nedved's performance, with her 23 kills, 146 set assists, and eight service aces leading the team's offensive efforts, while Holzbauer leads in kills with 58 and digs with 61.
The Red Raiders have also benefited from the return of capable hitters, allowing Knebel to expand roles within the lineup. With their momentum continuing, the team now aims to maintain consistency and develop the habits that could lead to another postseason run.
Written by urgent.news from Yahoo Sports's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
