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The 2025 season is upon us and we are so excited for what lies ahead! From 6A to 1A, there has already been exciting results from long-awaited action.
Starting the season off strong is Kellog, as they won the Ririe Bulldog Bash over the weekend. They won ten sets and lost two for day. This tied the Rockland Bulldogs, but when the two faced off head-to-head, Kellogg won the split by point differential. So, congrats to Kellogg for taking first at this year's tournament, and congrats to Rockland for finishing second.
Kellogg looks very disciplined on serve-receive and defense. Their setters are able to better many balls and run a faster tempo. Their steady platforms under the ball on defense, coupled with their never-give-up attitude is what put them ahead of the competition. The setter's connection with her hitters is impressive as well. Lastly, Kellogg is blessed with great coaching and each member of the program carries themselves well on and off the court. Good luck to Kellogg, as they will be a team to watch in North Idaho this season.
More teams to keep an eye on this year include Ririe, who hosted a great tournament and came in third at their Bulldog Bash. Ririe has lots of tall talent and is led by their outside hitter, Jadyn Nelson, who showed dominance at the tournament as she turned numerous line kills with power.
Soda Springs also has some heavy hitters this season and a setter that is fun to watch. The Cardinals never give up on any balls and play scrappy defense.
Rigby won the Peg Peterson Tournament this year, hosted by Highland High School in Pocatello. Rigby had to battle around the consolation side of the bracket as they lost to Snake River earlier in the day. They came back around and faced the Panthers once again in the third place match. They dispatched a fierce Snake River team to get to the championship, where they faced Idaho Falls. This was a very heated match as some players transferred from Idaho Falls to Rigby to be with their former coach, Aaron Adams, whose contract was terminated by Idaho Falls at the conclusion of last season.
Rigby returns Brinlee Bybee, their leading scorer last year and someone who figures to lead them offensively again this year. Additionally, the Trojans added a new setter and a receive specialist/middle hitter, both via transfer from the Idaho Falls area. Rigby will be a team to watch this season as they're battle-tested, with a new coach and new players that hopefully can unlock the right strategy for them. They have added height and power to their roster, but their chemistry is still incredibly strong. They've shown how they're able to win when it matters most and handle the pressure of the game. Congrats to the Trojans! We are so excited to see what they bring this season!
Idaho Falls will also be a contender this year. They've faced adversity many times, but still continue to fight. They battled their way to the Peg Peterson championship match this past weekend. They showed grit and strength with a new coach, but their resilience shined through it all.
Snake River will also be a strong contender for the Class 4A title. The Panthers play with hustle and determination. They have a group of girls who have played together for a very long time, and are ready to take on bigger schools and face tougher competition. They took third at the Peg Peterson tourney this weekend. Considering most had dismissed them prior to the tournament, this is very impressive! They have said goodbye to a number of key players over the last two years but this season, don't count these girls out. They do different things to score and have some standout hitting and blocking as well.
The volleyball season is just beginning! We are so excited for all of the action to come!
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