Lincoln, Neb. – The Nebraska high school volleyball championships continued Friday at Pinnacle Bank Arena, where the semifinals across all classifications produced several upsets. Four No. 1 seeded teams were knocked out, highlighting the depth and competitiveness of the state’s volleyball programs.
Class B shocker
Back‑to‑back Class B champion Norris entered the tournament as the top seed but was unable to repeat its success. Grand Island Northwest defeated Norris in straight sets, 25‑18, 25‑22, 25‑22, ending the defending champion’s run and securing a spot in the Class B title match on Saturday.
Other semifinal results
In Class A, the No. 1 seed Elkhorn North edged out No. 4 Lincoln North Star 3‑2, while No. 2 Papillion‑La Vista South defeated Omaha Marian 3‑1. The Class A championship will feature Elkhorn North against Papillion‑La Vista South at 5 p.m. Saturday.
Class C1 saw No. 4 Milford defeat No. 1 Concordia Omaha 3‑1, and No. 6 Aurora beat No. 2 Bishop Neumann 3‑2. Milford will seek a back‑to‑back title against Aurora on Saturday at 1 p.m.
In Class C2, No. 4 Guardian Angels Central Catholic overcame No. 1 Thayer Central 3‑1, while No. 2 Centura defeated No. 3 Laurel‑Concord‑Coleridge 3‑0. The C2 championship pits Guardian Angels Central Catholic against Centura at 3 p.m. Saturday.
Class D1 semifinals produced two clear winners: No. 1 Central Valley beat No. 5 North Central 3‑0, and No. 2 Amherst defeated No. 6 Tri County 3‑0. The D1 title game will open Saturday’s schedule at 9 a.m. at the Devaney Center.
Class D2 featured No. 4 Wynot beating No. 1 St. Mary’s 3‑0 and No. 2 Mullen overcoming No. 6 Bancroft‑Rosalie 3‑0. The D2 championship between Wynot and Mullen is set for 11 a.m. Saturday.
Championship day preview
Saturday’s championship matches will shift to the Devaney Center, beginning with the Division 1 title at 9 a.m. The full schedule includes: Central Valley vs. Amherst (D1), Wynot vs. Mullen (D2), Guardian Angels Central Catholic vs. Centura (C2), Milford vs. Aurora (C1), and the Class B final between Grand Island Northwest and Waverly at 7 p.m.
These matchups showcase the talent and dedication of Nebraska’s high school athletes, coaches, and supporters. Families and fans are expected to fill the arena, continuing the tradition of strong community involvement in Nebraska high school sports.
Community impact
The state tournament not only crowns champions but also brings together families from across the Cornhusker State, reinforcing the role of athletics in building character, teamwork, and local pride. As the finals approach, the excitement in Lincoln and the surrounding communities is palpable, with many looking forward to cheering on their hometown teams.
Original reporting: KLKN-TV – News, Weather and Sports for Lincoln, Nebraska — read the source article.
