ELYRIA SPIKERS SEE RENEWED DEPTH AS KEY TO 2026

writingwithwilldur
15 hours ago
2 min read

By Staff

The Elyria Christian volleyball program heads into the 2026 season with a determined senior core, renewed depth, and a schedule that wastes no time testing the Lady Eagles.

Entering her second season in charge of the Lady Eagles and tenth overall coaching, Amie Foote believes the team’s summer work has positioned them to make a meaningful noise in league play and hopefully in the post-season.

With Emma Glendening and Laney Reiff being the two senior graduates from 2025, they leave behind a challenge – overcoming a lack of height. With an average roster height of five feet, eight inches, Foote points out that improved blocking and technique will be essential.

What the Lady Eagles do return is a strong senior class led by middle hitter Joy Pyle, whom the coaches call the team’s key returning middle hitter and blocker.

Seniors Kami Noggle and Amelia Moody return as well with Noggle being the team’s leading outside hitter and expected to be a major offensive spark, while Moody transitions into a right-side role where her versatility in both the front and back row should pay dividends. Junior Kynli Schneider returns as another important contributor and new senior arrival, Chelsea Wandler adds defensive stability.

Sophomores Mallori Jader and Abigail Stone bring valuable varsity experience from last season as a setter and outside hitter, respectively. Freshmen Olivia Montroy and Avonli Sweney round out the core roster. Coaches have pointed out that sophomore Izzy Stuckey is a name to watch as her offseason development has been impressive, and they claim she could elevate the team’s middle attack.

With determination, depth, and a productive summer behind them, the Lady Eagles aim to climb the league ladder while building toward postseason momentum.

The Lady Eagles will open the 2026 season on Friday, August 28 in Wichita at CCA, kicking off a front-loaded schedule that includes tournaments at Solomon, Canton/Galva, and Burrton.

LADY EAGLE 2026 SCHEDULE:

Friday, Aug. 28 – at CCA in Wichita

Tuesday, Sept. 1 – hosting WAHAA/CCS

Thursday, Sept. 3 – at Wichita Defenders

Tuesday, Sept. 8 – at Little River

Saturday, Sept. 12 – at Solomon Tournament

Tuesday, Sept. 15 – at Centre

Thursday, Sept. 17 – hosting Berean Academy

Tuesday, Sept. 22 – hosting Wakefield & Reno Valley

Thursday, Sept. 24 – at Canton/Galva Tournament

Tuesday, Sept. 29 – at Little River with Solomon & Canton/Galva

Saturday, Oct. 3 – at Burrton Tournament