The pre-eminent volleyball program over the last 5 years in the North Central Conference has been the Cowgirls of Clarion-Goldfield-Dows. CGD captured their 4th conference title in 5 years in 2022, and in that span, has made 3 state tournament appearances and has a record of 128-39 in that span. 2023 now marks the dawn of a new era as Jessica Nail takes the reigns of the CGD program, with high expectations created by the culture of winning.
CGD loses some of their key pieces from last season’s conference title team, most notably star outside hitter and current DMACC Bear Lexie Lane, an all-state performer who accumulated 331 kills and 210 digs last season. Also departing are assists leader Karlee Lehman, and fellow hitters Clarissa Hasty and Kennedy Trca.
Ready to fill those shoes are senior Sydney Friesleben and junior Ady Askelsen. Friesleben will likely headline the Cowgirls frontcourt, while Askelsen will take over full-time setting duties. Elliott Ennis will also be a forced to be reckoned with, as her 6′ 1″ frame at middle or outside hitter will poise a tough test on the front line both offensively and defensively.
The back row does return Indy Johnson at her libero spot, where she recorded a team-high 271 digs, while other reserves such as Claire Kirstein and Sawyer Morrical will likely step into much larger roles in 2023.
Clarion-Goldfield-Dows opens their season with their home tournament in Clarion on Saturday, August 26th.