With the local high school sports season starting up, here is a look at some of the Upper Valley volleyball teams hitting the court in 2026.
The Hanover High Bears will shift their focus to defense after losing some players upfront to graduation, while the Mascoma High Royals are working toward their goal of making the postseason once again.
Meanwhile, the Hartford High Hurricanes will look to make another postseason push after falling in the semifinals of the VPA Division II playoffs last season to Enosburg Falls.
Hanover
Coach: Avery Kretschmar (1).
League: NHIAA Division II.
Last Year: 12-5, fell in quarterfinals.
Top Returners: Seniors — Sage Fargher (setter), Bella Poisson (outside), Casey Wilkinson (libero), Esther Skogerboe (middle).
Newcomers: Juniors — Nour Tannous (outside), Laila Sundred (defensive specialist), Amelia McGinnis (right side).
Coach’s Analysis: “With the matriculation of seasoned front-row players last season, we will have to be a heavy defense-focused team. Focusing on being scrappy, aggressive serves and strategic plays will be key for our success. We are focusing on making the smart play, not the most flashy one, to earn points and win matches.” — Avery Kretschmar
Hartford
Coach: Natasha Niffka (2).
League: VPA Division II.
Last Year: 12-2; loss in the semifinals.
Roster: Seniors — Julia Bonnett, Amara Johnson, Emma Taylor, Maya Johnson; Sophomores — Maddy Goodwin, Charlie Bordeau, Cece Theriault, Bella Liles, Amelie Mangieri, Zoey Wood, Sophia Timoshenko; Freshmen — Aubree Gramling.
Mascoma
Coach: Eric Ramage (8).
League: NHIAA Division III.
Last Year: 6-10, fell in state tournament first round.
Top Returners: Seniors — Rory Giguere, Luna Villnerve, Ryleigh Giguere; Juniors — Lyla Payson; Sophomores — Layla Hatch.
Newcomers: Seniors — Leighlynn Backlund; Juniors — Anastasia Palmer, Amelie Villnerve.
Coach’s Analysis: “We have a really positive squad this year, which is probably what I’m most excited about as a coach. We have some excellent leadership this year, and they will make this season a lot of fun for everyone involved. A few players on our team have depth of experience. Only one has really played club beyond their high school experience, so we will again be in a positive learning environment. We usually make the playoffs, and so far, we have lost in the first round each time. Division III has some very strong programs, and the upper half of D-III is quite strong. We will continue learning and playing hard in our joyful pursuit of excellence. Our goal this year is to lift our competitive level and earn a spot in the playoffs again this year. We have many new players joining us at the JV level, and we are excited to have each and every one. Our teams are fun to watch, terrific in sportsmanship, has great heart and competitive togetherness; we hope lots of fans come out to cheer us on.” — Eric Ramage
