Hanover volleyball wins second straight state championship, 4th title in six years

EMPORIA (KSNT)- Back-to-back.

Hanover volleyball claimed its second straight 1A DII Championship on Saturday, beating Linn 2-0 (25-16, 25-14) for the title.

It’s the Wildcats’ 4th championship in six years.

“I’ve watched this senior class grow up. I’ve watched these girls since kindergarten blossom into the young ladies they are today,” head coach Melissa Holle told 27 Sports. “There’s a drive for volleyball at our school and this whole team comes together every year. They want it and they go out and get it.”

Among the seniors is Holle’s daughter, Katie, who the two celebrated the title within the family.

The goal for back-to-back was established day one for this team.

“It’s a great feeling. It was the goal all along for another title,” senior Trinity Schlabach said. “We had posters in our locker room all season and we were determined to get it done.”

Junior Drew Bruna surpassed 1,000 career kills Friday during the tournament and helped lead the Wildcats to another title.

“This team is insane. We know when we need to work hard and we get it done,” Bruna told 27 Sports. “We all came through for each other. We didn’t let balls hit the ground without a fight. We did good.”

Hanover will fight for a state three-peat next season.

Along with Hanover claiming the title and Linn taking second, Axtell finished fourth to round out the area teams at the tournament.

Video will be available after 27 News at 10

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