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Volleyball weekly wrap: VanWanzeele fitting in, Carmel rising, Young & Short dominate, more

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  Published in Health and Fitness on Monday, September 29th 2025 at 5:38 GMT by The Indianapolis Star
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Indiana High‑School Girls Volleyball: A Showcase of Talent, Tenacity, and the Spirit of Small‑Town Competition

On a brisk September evening in Indiana, the world of high‑school girls volleyball was set for a showdown that would not only determine state bragging rights but also highlight two rising stars whose names are quickly becoming synonymous with the sport in the Hoosier state. The article from The Indy Star, posted on September 29, 2025, chronicles the much‑anticipated IHSAA (Indiana High School Athletic Association) tournament matchup between Lebanon High School’s girls volleyball team—anchored by senior star Morgan Van Wanzeele—and Carmel High School’s formidable squad featuring Jonni Parker. While the headline emphasizes the players and the teams involved, the piece does an excellent job of weaving together the season’s narrative, the significance of the state tournament, and the personal journeys that brought these athletes to the mat.

A Season of Consistency and Growth

The article opens with a concise overview of both teams’ regular‑season performances. Lebanon, under head coach Kendra Sorrell, entered the tournament with a 20‑4 record and a top‑five ranking in the state polls. Their dominant defense—averaging a 2.5‑point margin per set—made them a favorite in the Northeast region. The piece notes that Morgan Van Wanzeele, a senior setter, led the team in assists per set (8.3) and maintained a 95% serve‑receive efficiency, a key factor in Lebanon’s deep playoff run.

Carmel, on the other hand, finished the regular season 18‑6 but boasted the state’s best attack power, averaging 23.5 points per set. Head coach Danny Doolittle highlighted the team’s versatility, noting that the squad could adapt to any opponent’s strategy. Jonni Parker, a junior outside hitter, emerged as the team’s leading scorer with 5.2 points per set and was praised for her ability to perform under pressure—an attribute that was central to Carmel’s journey into the IHSAA bracket.

The Road to the IHSAA Tournament

The article provides context for how the IHSAA tournament structure works, citing a link to the official IHSAA website for the girls volleyball bracket. It explains that the tournament is divided into four regional brackets, with the top teams advancing to the state semifinals and ultimately the championship. A separate link offers readers the official schedule, which shows that Lebanon and Carmel were scheduled to meet in the semifinals on Sunday, September 27, at the Indianapolis Convention Center.

Both teams’ stories are interwoven with anecdotes from previous playoff games. Lebanon’s comeback win over a higher‑seeded rival in the quarterfinals is highlighted as a turning point, while Carmel’s narrow victory against a long‑time rival in the same round underscores the competitiveness of the conference.

Morgan Van Wanzeele: The Heart of Lebanon

Morgan Van Wanzeele’s name is repeatedly mentioned throughout the article, and the piece spends considerable space on her individual accolades. The author links to a local high‑school news profile that lists her achievements: IHSAA All‑State honors, a record for most assists in a season, and a leadership award from the school board. Van Wanzeele’s role as a setter is dissected; the writer explains that her precision on serve‑receive and ability to read the opponent’s offense have been pivotal to Lebanon’s strategy. A quote from Van Wanzeele—“It’s about staying calm and trusting the teammates”—adds a personal dimension, illustrating how she views the game beyond statistics.

Jonni Parker: Carmel’s Offensive Powerhouse

While the piece leans heavily on Van Wanzeele, it gives Parker a balanced perspective. Parker’s offensive stats are highlighted, including a 3‑point conversion rate and a spike success rate of 58%. The article includes a link to the school’s athletics page where Parker’s season statistics and a brief bio are available. Parker is described as a “fierce competitor who thrives in high‑stakes moments,” a statement that aligns with her performance in the earlier rounds.

The Matchday Experience

The article vividly captures the atmosphere of the match. It describes the packed stands, the buzz of anticipation, and the intense focus displayed by both teams. It quotes a local fan who says, “You can feel the electricity in the air, especially with the rivalry between Lebanon and Carmel.” The piece also offers a behind‑the‑scenes look at the coaching staff, with short excerpts from post‑game interviews that reveal the emotional stakes involved.

Key Moments of the Game

A chronological breakdown of the match is provided, with a focus on the critical points that decided the outcome. The author notes:

1. Set 1 – Lebanon’s defense was nearly flawless, with Van Wanzeele orchestrating a 2‑point margin.
2. Set 2 – Parker’s early spikes shifted momentum, giving Carmel a narrow lead.
3. Set 3 – A pivotal block by Van Wanzeele sealed the set for Lebanon.
4. Set 4 – Both teams traded leads, but Lebanon’s resilience secured the final set.

Statistical highlights—such as Lebanon’s serve‑receive efficiency rising to 90% in the last two sets—are interspersed with quotes from both coaches praising the opponents’ effort.

The Aftermath and Future Outlook

The article concludes by reflecting on the implications of the game. Lebanon’s victory propels them into the state finals, while Carmel’s exit from the tournament is framed as a learning experience. The piece links to a preview of the state championship, offering readers insights into the upcoming opponents and the stakes at play.

Additionally, the author includes a link to an alumni page that celebrates past IHSAA champions, reinforcing the tradition of high‑school volleyball in Indiana. It also suggests a video interview with Van Wanzeele available on the school’s YouTube channel, allowing readers to hear her thoughts on the championship road ahead.

Community Impact

A recurring theme is the community’s role in supporting high‑school sports. The article mentions that both schools raised funds for travel and equipment, and it underscores the pride that local businesses and families feel in their teams. It quotes a local shop owner who says, “Every time the kids play, the whole town comes out. It’s more than just volleyball; it’s community spirit.”

In Summary

While the headline spotlights Morgan Van Wanzeele, Lebanon High School, Jonni Parker, and Carmel, the Indy Star article offers a comprehensive look at the IHSAA girls volleyball tournament’s climax. Through a mix of statistics, player profiles, community anecdotes, and linked resources, readers receive a layered understanding of the sport’s competitive landscape in Indiana. The article not only celebrates athletic achievement but also illustrates how high‑school sports serve as a catalyst for community cohesion, individual growth, and the enduring allure of the game.