New season, new classification, high hopes

Weiser High School’s head volleyball coach Michelle Estes sees nothing but positives for the upcoming 2024 season.

 “The girls worked hard in the off season, playing with club teams and attending multiple camps this summer,” Estes told the Signal American. 

 “Returning varsity players are Lucy Hickey, Madi Wilkins, Paisley Noyer, Hailey Eames, Kamryn Doty, Kailee Lerew, Evie Dolton, Adalyn Brush and Ellie Shirts.”

 That list of players includes six incoming seniors, with Jordan Stromberg coming onto the team this fall and making it seven.

 “Except for Lerew, who was running in Australia this summer, the returning varsity team, along with junior Bree Gomez, and sophomore Presley Williams attended the WSU team camp and tournament in July,” Estes said. “The team battled hard against much larger Washington and Oregon schools, coming away as the tournament champions.”

 Estes said the plan for the season is to focus on what is directly in front of them.

 “Taking each match as it comes,” she said. “The team looks strong and versatile with multiple players able to fill key positions. To pinpoint those to watch, I’d have to say ‘watch the team.’ They have incredible potential when they work together.”

 With the state’s realignment of league classifications this fall, Estes said the league will be all new. Parma has dropped down a division, and Cole Valley and Emmett has entered the SRV.

 “With seven teams, it will be the toughest league in the state 4A division,” Estes said. “Our JV and frosh/soph teams look to be strong and very competitive, as well. Both teams will be aiming for league and district tournament titles.”

 Large numbers of athletes in age groups from second grade and up participated in a variety of camps since April, and Estes is confident in a strong future for Wolverine volleyball.

 “WHS varsity will start the season with a tough schedule, traveling to Pocatello to play in the Peg Petersen tournament on Aug. 23 and 24,” she said. “We will see a multitude of 5A and 6A schools.”

 Let’s go, Wolverines!