The TCNE Wolfpack brought home championship hardware on Saturday, October 11th, capturing first place at the Hartington-Newcastle Varsity Volleyball Tournament with a perfect 3-0 run through pool and bracket play. The Pack showed grit, balance, and sharp execution as they swept past the Hartington-Newcastle Wildcats and Bloomfield Queen Bees, while edging the Wausa Lady Vikings in a three-set battle.
In their tournament opener, TCNE wasted no time setting the tone against the host Wildcats, earning a 2-0 sweep with set scores of 25-17 and 25-18. Outside hitter Joslyn Mackling paced the Wolfpack attack with 9 kills and anchored the defense with 12 serve receives. The Pack’s serving game kept the Wildcats on their heels, tallying 7 aces, led by Aubrey Mitchell’s 3. Defensively, libero Emily Mitchell tallied 8 digs, while setter Ally Belt distributed the offense with 22 assists. Kiya Tornez added 11 serve receives, helping TCNE control the tempo from start to finish.
The Wolfpack’s second match brought a rematch against the Wausa Lady Vikings, who had previously challenged TCNE earlier in the season. This time, the Pack prevailed again, but not without a fight, winning 2-1 by scores of 25-16, 18-25, and 25-18. Mackling delivered another standout performance, crushing 18 kills and serving up 5 of TCNE’s 12 aces. She was everywhere on the floor, adding 14 digs and a team-high 22 serve receives. DeLaney Fuchser provided a defensive spark at the net with 2 blocks, while Belt kept the offense humming with another 22 assists.
In the championship match, TCNE faced off against the Bloomfield Queen Bees, sealing the tournament title with a decisive 2-0 sweep (25-21, 25-19). Mackling and Tornez led the attack with 6 kills apiece, while Aubrey Mitchell once again showcased her serving strength with 3 aces. Fuchser dominated the middle with 4 blocks, and Belt led the defense in digs (9) while adding 11 assists. Mackling and Emily Mitchell anchored the back row with 14 and 12 serve receives, respectively.
With the victory, the TCNE Wolfpack hoisted the Hartington-Newcastle Tournament Championship plaque, capping off a day that highlighted their depth, teamwork, and relentless energy. As the season continues, TCNE’s chemistry and consistency are proving to be championship-caliber.