Home / Sports / Wagner Raiders: Experience Fuels Early Volleyball Dominance
Wagner Raiders: Experience Fuels Early Volleyball Dominance
5 Sep
Summary
- Wagner volleyball team boasts a 6-1 record with six consecutive wins.
- Senior leadership and experienced players are key to the team's success.
- Setter Braxton Nedved orchestrates the offense with impressive assists.
The Wagner Red Raiders volleyball team has begun the season with impressive momentum, achieving a 6-1 record and six consecutive wins. This strong start follows their appearance in the Class A state tournament last year, suggesting that valuable experience is translating to on-court success. The team's performance is anchored by a returning group of senior players.
Key to Wagner's offense is senior setter Braxton Nedved, who has recorded 146 assists this season. Her ability to distribute the ball effectively maximizes the hitting strength of players like outside hitter Hannah Holzbauer, who leads the team with 58 kills and 61 digs. Middle hitters Ravyn Medricky, Brianna Fuchs, and Mateya Bruguier also contribute significantly to the team's attack.
Coach Stacey Knebel highlights the exceptional leadership and communication from her senior players as a critical factor in the team's early success. This experienced core is driving the team's commitment to playing with intensity daily. The team's depth has also allowed for expanded roles, such as junior Mila Hopkins transitioning to an outside hitter position.
Following an early season loss to Vermillion, Wagner secured victories at the Parkston Invite and against Mount Vernon/Plankinton and Chamberlain. They are set to host Platte-Geddes on September 8, 2026, aiming to maintain their winning streak. The team's focus remains on consistent practice and building on their state tournament experience for another potential postseason run.
