CAN LITTLE RIVER SPIKERS MAKE IT 5 IN A ROW

By Staff

Little River volleyball in 2026 will look to continue one of the most remarkable legacies in Kansas high school sports – four straight state championships, including a 44-2 record in 2025, and an undefeated run through Wheat State League games.

     This season’s story will be different as graduation took five major pieces from last year’s title team, and the 2026 team steps into a new chapter with fresh faces, new roles, and a hunger to prove they can keep the dynasty alive.

     Lady Redskin head coach Kim Rolfs (284-82 record at Little River, 494-161 in her career) returns a strong core but must work to replace five major contributors lost to graduation, including multiple All-State selections and two-time Player of the Year, Arika Feldman, plus three two time all-state selected teammates Adelynne Strecker, Havana Olander, and Evie Look along with Lucy Wright.

     What Little River does have to build the team around is senior outside hitter/middle blocker Saelyn Raleigh. Raleigh posted 366 kills, 66 aces, 55 blocks, and 200 digs last season, earning all-state honors for the second straight season. Raleigh will be the cornerstone of the program, and her leadership will be essential as the Lady Redskins reshape their lineup.

     Seniors Avery Lafferty (71 kills, 37 blocks), Kate Henrickson (24 aces, 96.3% serve efficiency), and Rylee McAllister all step into expanded roles, while junior Macy Schubert returns after contributing 73 kills in 2025. The coaching staff expects each to play significantly larger roles the upcoming season.

     The Lady Redskins have added several newcomers who should bolster their depth as junior Jolie Myers along with sophomores Dempsey Lafferty, Eisley Ewertt, and Brooke White have shown strong offseason improvement. Lafferty is expected to be a key component of the rotation as she returns from an injury that hampered her in 2025. Additional freshmen may see varsity time as needed according to the coaches.

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     While the primary challenge will be to replace the production and leadership of last season’s senior class, the Lady Redskins’ strengths include a solid nucleus of experienced players and a clear understanding of the championship-level play required to compete at the top level of Class 1A Division I.

     Coach Rolfs and her staff have built a winning program based on discipline, communication, reaching for excellence and having the understanding of playing at that level needed to compete for league and state titles.

     The dynasty at Little River is not fading away – it is simply entering a new era with plans to continue being a contender for both league and state success.

(The Staff covering McPherson County Activities can be reached by email at macks.people.places@gmail.com)