The Highlands Lady Highlanders varsity volleyball team finished their 2025 season on Saturday after advancing to the fourth round of the NCHSAA state tournament. Their postseason concluded with a highly contested 3–1 loss to Clover Garden School in Burlington.
Highlands finished the year with an overall record of 11–14 and a 5–1 mark in conference play, earning the Little Smoky Mountain Conference Regular Season Championship. The title was a highlight in a season characterized by steady improvement and consistent teamwork.
“I am incredibly proud of our team, what we were able to accomplish, and the dedication each player has shown this season,” said Head Coach Reese Schmitt. “Their hard work and determination set the tone for our success this year.”
The Lady Highlanders opened the state tournament with a first-round win over Summit Charter, followed by a second-round victory against Thomas Jefferson Classical Academy. In the third round, they defeated Jackson Day School to reach the Elite Eight.
Their fourth-round matchup against Clover Garden was tightly contested. After dropping the first two sets 25–20 and 25–20, Highlands responded with a 25–21 win in the third. The fourth set came down to several key points before Clover Garden closed it out 27–25 to advance.
“I want to thank our seniors for their commitment to the program, and assistant coach Brandy Zagal for her invaluable support this season,” added Schmitt. “We have grown as athletes and coaches, learned from each other, and built a strong foundation for our future.”
The 2025 varsity roster included seniors Olivia Corbin, Cayden Pierson, Jaylin Raby, Ann Elizabeth Woods, and Claire Worley; juniors Jordyn Borino and Taylor Hays; and freshman Anabelle Hays.
- Josh Bryson
editor@highlandsnews.com