The Gladbrook-Reinbeck volleyball team will have some holes to fill after several key players graduated, but head coach Paula Kelley is encouraged by the group returning for the 2026 season.
The Rebels have around 30 players out, including nine seniors, giving Kelley plenty of leadership and experience.
Last year’s statistical leaders Kennedy Brant, Elly Sieh, Brinn Schneider and Leila Thesing have graduated and moved on. Those players combined for 908 kills last season.
Among the key returners is Senior Jada Cheville, had 145 kills last season. Senior Kailey Larsen also returns after recording an impressive 863 assists.
Senior Ayla Baer recorded 50 aces last season, while senior Avery Boyer saw action in 28 sets.
Kelley says the team’s effort and chemistry have been impressive during preseason work.
“You know, you take a look at how you ended last year, and we feel like we’ve already stepped up from where we ended last year, which is not an easy thing to do. Our effort has been great. Our numbers were at 30. The kids have been playing wonderful. They get along.”
Kelley is also excited about the leadership from her senior class.
“My seniors are doing a fantastic job leading the team. Right now I have nine seniors, so all of them kind of have a little role to kind of lead the group of 30. And so for us, we’re way ahead of schedule.”
The Rebels are hoping that senior leadership, strong numbers and good team chemistry will help Gladbrook-Reinbeck take another step forward this season.
