The Notre Dame Academy Pandas are gearing up for the KHSAA state volleyball tournament after claiming their fourth consecutive 9th Region title. The team defeated St. Henry with a 15-6 victory in the final set, securing their 39th regional championship overall. Less than 20 hours later, the Pandas were back in practice, refining their skills and strategies ahead of the state competition.
Senior captain Audrey Dyas, who has committed to the University of Toledo and was named the 9th Region tournament MVP, expressed her enthusiasm for the upcoming challenges. “It’s an honor to wear the Notre Dame uniform, so our team works really hard and we are excited,” she stated. Alongside Dyas, the team boasts several skilled players, including fellow seniors Lizzy Larkins and Grace Portwood, both of whom are bound for collegiate volleyball programs.
The co-head coaches, Hannah Colvin and Madison Salkowski, have been instrumental in guiding the team through a challenging season. Colvin highlighted the need for players to step up following the departure of seven seniors from last year’s squad. The new libero, Dara Jackson, has embraced her role after replacing Julia Grace, who left to play for Xavier University.
Preparing for State Competition
The Pandas, now with a record of 29 wins and seven losses, will face the 12th Region champion West Jessamine on Monday at 19:00. This matchup marks another chapter in a long history between the two teams, with Notre Dame having won both previous encounters in 2020 and 2023 during state tournaments. The winner will move on to the state quarterfinals, scheduled for November 7 at George Rogers Clark.
Colvin believes the team is well-prepared for a deep run in the state tournament. “For any team that gets to state, the goal is to win,” she said, emphasizing the importance of maintaining focus and not taking anything for granted. The Pandas are currently ranked second in the state and are eager to secure their 11th state title.
Should Notre Dame progress to the later stages of the tournament, they may face off against the defending champions, Louisville Assumption. The Rockets, currently ranked first in the Kentucky Volleyball Coaches Association state poll, have a storied history with 24 state titles, far exceeding Notre Dame’s total of 10.
Building on Past Success
Colvin and Salkowski, both graduates of Notre Dame Academy, have transitioned from players to coaches this year. Their shared experiences have fostered a strong coaching dynamic. Portwood noted their successful collaboration: “It’s been pretty successful because they both specialize in an area.” The coaches often find themselves on the same page, which has contributed to the team’s cohesive performance.
Despite past difficulties against Assumption, including a 3-0 defeat in the regular season, the Pandas have gained confidence in recent encounters. Since Colvin and Salkowski became part of the coaching staff, the team has defeated Assumption multiple times, marking a significant shift in their rivalry.
As the tournament approaches, both coaches recognize that anything can happen. Salkowski stated, “There are no guarantees Assumption’s going to be in the final,” underscoring the unpredictability of the competition. The path to success requires hard work and determination.
The Pandas are not just focused on their immediate opponents; they are also aware of the challenges ahead. With a balanced team that excels in various aspects of the game, including serving and passing, Colvin is optimistic about their chances. “We’re winning gritty rallies. We have an all-around strong team,” she commented.
With their eyes set on the ultimate prize, the four seniors are confident in their team’s abilities. Portwood remarked, “I think our team goes into every match with confidence. If we get to play Assumption again, we can give them a battle, even win. But we have to get there first.”
As Notre Dame Academy prepares for their state tournament journey, the community remains supportive, eager to see if the Pandas can add to their legacy with another championship.
