The 36-4 Heartland Volleyball team is heading to its final week of the 2025 season. On Monday, November 17th, the Hawks take a trip to Cedar Rapids, Iowa, to compete in the 2025 NJCAA DII National Tournament. Following their District Tournament win last weekend, their 6-0 conference record, and their impressive overall record, the team was selected as the #2 team entering the tournament. The hard work that the team has been doing is evident in their impressive numbers throughout the season.
    Defensively, the Hawks display dominance as they accumulated over 2.200 digs and average two blockers per set. On offense, their attacks resemble their defense as they added 326 aces to the season with an average of 13 kills per set.
As the tournament is looming, the Hawks are anxious to perform on the big stage. As we get closer to next week, Head Coach and Region 24 Coach of the Year, Mary Frahm, reflects on what the coaching staff and team are anticipating, saying, "I'm really looking forward to what I think is the most competitive National Tournament we've had since I've been around." The fluctuation of the national ranks was a true representation of the type of teams competing. Frahm continues, "The field is loaded, and so I expect the tournament to be extremely competitive because I truly think anyone can win this thing".
     As preparation, the team continues to stay focused on their objectives they've held from the beginning. Coach Frahm stays consistent on the court with her preparation for every contest. "We'll continue to keep our focus on our process in the gym, and that really comes back to the fundamentals of the match on our side. So, our hope and focus will be ensuring we can be as disciplined as possible at the service line and in serve receive as we see the level of competition that we're going to".
    The emotions are heightened for the group, and Frahm is ecstatic for the group she's going into the tournament with. "This group has been an absolute joy to coach, so more than anything, I'm just excited to continue the season with them. It's not even just on the court, I'm just excited for more time with them on bus rides, in the hotel, or whatever it is. They're simply just fun to be around, and I don't want to take a moment with them for granted".

    With both the girls and staff prepared to exhibit competitive volleyball, the tournament will be filled with excitement and fierce competition throughout the week. The Hawks will start play on Wednesday, November 19th, and will continue with play through the week.