Nighthawks are current three-time state champions

OAKESDALE — The Oakesdale Nighthawks are the best volleyball team in the state, and they have three state championship titles in a row to prove it.

The Nighthawks are headed by 11-year veteran coach McKinzie Turner, assisted by Darcie Van Dyke. Coach Turner has a record of 124-11 with Oakesdale, and a 132-49 record overall.

Last season, the Nighthawks went a perfect 24-0 on their way to a three-peat state championship. While the team graduated starters Payton Davis, Brieyn Henly and Samantha Holling, the team still has a lot of skill on the court.

Outside and middle hitter Jenna Rawls will lead the team as the lone senior. Prospective starters include Rawls, junior middle hitter Bradyn Henley, sophomore middle/outside hitter Grace Perry, freshman outside hitter Lyla Kjack, freshman specialist and opposite hitter Megan Crider and eighth grader Parker Davis. Addy Lisenbee is also a key newcomer.

“We have a lot of new faces this year, but our goal is to continue to play at a competitive level,” Turner said. “We have a lot of the pieces we need to be successful. Our focus is on small improvements every day and continuing to grow physically, mentally and emotionally for consistent play on the court.

Turner said her team’s strengths are the three returners from the state championship team last year as two of them played key roles in six rotations. Things to work on this year will be having a young team who is continuing to develop and focus on playing together to get a rhythm.

“We have a lot of positive energy and excitement in our program,” Turner said. “We have players who are hungry to play and continue the legacy we have built.”

Oakesdale opened the season with a home match against St. John-Endicott/LaCrosse on Tuesday, Sept. 10, after press time. The team will next play an away match against Colton at 6 p.m. today, Thursday, Sept. 12.