Highland’s volleyball team opened the 2026 season just the way they wanted to … with a sweep.
The Cardinals took care of Shullsburg 3-0 and had to play some catchup volleyball to do it. Scores were 25-21, 25-10 and 25-21.
The final game saw the Lady Miners get off to a hot start. They led 7-2 before the Cardinals came back to tie it at nine-all. The Cards fell behind enough to force five ties before they took an 18-17 lead and pulled away for the win.
The second set saw the Cardinals cruise to an 8-1 lead then kept the Lady Miners at bay until the scored the lopsided win.
The opening set was back and forth until the Cards pulled away with a late run from a 20-19 lead.
The Cardinals are at the Jamboree at Barneveld Saturday and open at 8:30 win Albany in the nine team affair. They host Cassville Tuesday.
Against the Lady Miners Celia Oleson led with nine kills with Sophie Tarrell adding eight and Adilyn Esser seven. Tarrell and Esser commanded the net with four and three blocks.
HIGHLAND STATS
Sophie Tarrell-8 kills, 4 blocks, 3 aces
Celia Oleson-9 kills, 11 digs Adilyn Esser-7 kills, 3 blocks, 1 ace
Marissa Biba-3 kills, 2 aces, 12 digs
Ava Michek-24 assists, 3 aces Lilly Tarrell-2 aces, 1 assist
Also in the mix was Emily Laufenberg who coach Maria Wineski credited with bringing out the energy needed by the team. Laufenberg joined the team to help with depth.
"I am happy she decided to come out," Wineski said. "I am excited to see her develop."
Going forward Wineski knows the Cardinals will scrap for everything they get.
"They play with a lot of heart and I am so proud of them, " she said. "They really gelled tonight and if they can stay consistent while playing together it will be a great season."