Front: Anley Sauder, Ella Homan, Laruen Bishop, Emily Wilson, Emily Lenhart, Jordin Lenhard. 2nd: Manager Laney Lee, Paisley Mayer, Kinley Bottom, Jaymee Harger, Rowan Lee, Alexa Salinas, Jaydee Thouvenel, Emelyn Bishop, Nikita Prosser, Bristol Fraizer, Manager Caylieh Griffin. 3rd: Emma Meyer, Zoe Hansen, Tatum Lee, Macey Cole, Addison York, Gentry Wallin, Ryleigh Johnson, Rosslyn Kielich, Lila Hill.
Plainsmen look to depth, versatility under new leadership in 2026 season
BY SAMANTHA GOFF
GRANT TRIBUNE-SENTINEL
The Perkins County volleyball team will rely on its depth, versatility and growing confidence as the Plainsmen enter the 2026 season under new head coach Irene Ortega.
Perkins County returns two starters, seniors Ella Homan and junior Zoe Hansen, from last year’s team. Homan will serve as a team captain alongside seniors Lauren Bishop and Jordin Lenhart.
Ortega said Homan’s ability to contribute in several areas will make her an important part of the Plainsmen’s lineup.
“Ella Homan is a strong, versatile player,” Ortega said.
The Plainsmen also expect contributions from a large group of players stepping into expanded roles. Junior Addison York is expected to make an impact along the front line, while Bishop, Lenhart, sophomores Paisley Mayer and Macey Cole and others will provide Perkins County with multiple options throughout the rotation.
“Honestly, we have a young group, so anyone coming up has been an asset,” Ortega said.
That combination of youth and experience has given Perkins County one of its greatest strengths entering the season: depth.
“We have a variety of players who can contribute in different positions and roles,” Ortega said. “That gives us multiple options and allows us to adjust to different opponents and situations.”
The Plainsmen have spent the preseason working to strengthen their defense and serve receive while developing a quicker offense. They also plan to serve aggressively, communicate on every point and limit unforced errors.
Finding consistency and learning how to use the team’s depth effectively will be among the program’s biggest challenges.
The team’s individual goals include improving each week, becoming stronger mentally and physically and developing greater consistency. Collectively, Ortega wants the Plainsmen to play with energy, trust their training and continue growing together.
“We are excited about challenging ourselves, continuing to grow and building a strong team together,” she said.
To read the full story, subscribe by calling the Tribune at 308-352-4311 or sign up for an e-edition by clicking here. https://publisher1.etype.services/Grant-Tribune-Sentinel