On Thursday night, high‑school volleyball teams across eastern and western North Dakota converged for the final round of regional competition. Four Class A schools and four Class B schools emerged as regional champions, guaranteeing each a place at the state tournament scheduled for next week at the Bismarck Events Center.
Regional champions advance
In Class A, the champions were Lincoln High School, St. Mary’s Academy, Williston High and Grand Forks Central. Each team earned its ticket to the state tournament by winning its respective regional final, a victory that reflects months of preparation, disciplined coaching, and strong community support.
Class B saw a similar story of triumph. Jamestown High, Hillsboro High, Grafton High and Willow City High captured their regional crowns. The teams will join their Class A counterparts in Bismarck, where the state championship will determine the top high‑school volleyball programs in the North Dakota High School Activities Association (NDHSAA).
Third‑place teams keep hopes alive
Eight additional programs secured a chance to continue their seasons by winning third‑place matchups at the regional level. Those schools—four from each class—will travel to the Bismarck Events Center on Saturday for a play‑in round. The winners of those games will face the regional runner‑up teams from other areas, and the victors of those contests will earn the final spots in the state tournament.
“We’re proud of the effort our athletes showed tonight,” said Coach Mark Jensen of Willow City High, whose team captured the Class B third‑place title. “Even though we didn’t win the championship, we still have a path to the state tournament, and the kids are excited to keep fighting.”
Community support and family pride
Parents, alumni, and local fans filled gymnasiums across the state, cheering loudly for their schools. Many families traveled long distances to watch their children compete, underscoring the role of high‑school sports in fostering community spirit and family togetherness.
“Volleyball brings our town together,” said Linda Carter, a parent of a Lincoln High player. “Seeing the kids work as a team, supporting each other on and off the court, is a reminder of the values we cherish—hard work, perseverance, and faith in one another.”
Looking ahead to the state tournament
The state tournament will begin next week, featuring the eight regional champions and the two play‑in winners. The competition will determine the Class A and Class B state champions, a title that carries prestige for the schools, coaches, and the broader community.
All games will be held at the Bismarck Events Center, with tickets available through the NDHSAA website. Fans are encouraged to attend and support the young athletes who represent the best of North Dakota’s high‑school sports tradition.
For more information on schedules, ticketing, and team line‑ups, visit the NDHSAA’s official site or follow local news outlets covering the tournament.
Original reporting: KFYR-TV Bismarck (news) — read the source article.
