Lincoln Southwest Silver Hawks Win District Volleyball Title to Advance to State

Lincoln Southwest punched its ticket to the state tournament on Wednesday, Oct. 28, 2026, defeating Millard South 3-1 in a hard-fought district volleyball matchup in Lincoln, Nebraska.

Silver Hawks Secure State Berth Over Millard South

The match featured relentless defensive play and high-stakes rallies as the Silver Hawks worked to turn back the Patriots. On the floor, Lincoln Southwest players like Reagan Becker and Taryn Weigel came up with crucial digs and saves to keep plays alive. Becker handled tough serves in the back row, while Weigel repeatedly dove across the court to prevent the ball from hitting the floor. During the event, a Lincoln Southwest Silver Hawk cheerleader checked her phone in between sets.

Head coach Jessica Kirkendall guided the squad through the tense moments, celebrating key points alongside her coaching staff and rallying the players during timeouts. Meanwhile, the Lincoln Southwest band and student section provided an energetic backdrop, with drummers keeping the tempo high during breaks in the action.

Inside the District Matchup

Millard South pushed the Silver Hawks throughout the evening. Patriot setter Bailey Wyzensky leaped to distribute the ball, and teammate Nevaeh Jacobson made desperate defensive dives to keep her team in contention, while Millard South Patriot Liv Koziol (10) and one of her teammates prepared for the next serve to come their way. Head coach Jaisa Poppleton paced the sideline, celebrating hard-earned points as the Patriots battled to shift the momentum.

Yet Lincoln Southwest maintained the upper hand through steady execution. Suzie Riggins delivered consistent serves and scored key points, while Nia Fonoti distributed the ball cleanly alongside teammates Mia Fonoti, Haley Nunes, and Emma Rink. As the final points unfolded, the Silver Hawks’ teamwork proved decisive.

The Road to State

Following the 3-1 victory, the two teams exchanged traditional handshakes, bringing a respectful close to the district final, with Lincoln Southwest Silver Hawks Taryn Weigel (10) and Ansley Curry (12) wishing a good game to the fallen Millard South Patriots. Nia Fonoti accepted the district title plaque on behalf of the squad, setting off celebrations on the court.

With the district trophy secured, Coach Kirkendall gathered her team for a final huddle on the court in Lincoln. The Silver Hawks now turn their focus to the upcoming state tournament, carrying the momentum from Wednesday’s victory into the final bracket of the season.

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