CLARION, Ia. — A program that once reigned supreme in the NCC just a few years ago, Clarion-Goldfield-Dows volleyball is riding the roller coaster that nearly every small program in Iowa has ridden at some point following a 6-20 mark in 2025. The Cowgirls were still a very young team with many underclassmen and inexperienced upperclassmen playing big roles. But with a key season under their belt, and promising young talent coming up, CGD is looking for a bounce back season in 2026.
Front Row
The Cowgirls have the size to be a competitive group in a now crowded North Central Conference picture. Kills leader Ella Fineran is back at outside hitter after a team-high 98 kills in 2026, as she platoons with senior Blaire Askelsen, who had 32 kills and 42 assists in a hybrid spot before missing the 2nd half of the season with an injury. Adelynn Howell and Ella Engstrom add some reinforcements on the front line, as Engstrom finished with 86 kills and 13 blocks in 2025, while Howell had 17 kills and 12 blocks in her junior campaign. Junior Audrey Egland could also be a front line contributor for the Cowgirls.
Back Row
A strong nucleus returns in the back row for the Cowgirls, led by senior libero Quinn Brooks, who dug out a team-high 279 digs in 2025 and provides a wide defensive range. Harper Nerlein is someone who can play both front and back row, but the junior setter returns after 306 assists and 171 digs in 2025. Ashlynn Smith also brings back some range in the back row, as she finished with 127 digs in 2025 from defensive specialist spot. Some young athletes to watch in the back row include juniors Marlee Thompson and Tara Berning, as well as sophomore Chantel Nosbush.