STORY CITY, Ia. — The goals for Roland-Story volleyball are lofty in 2026, as the Norse wound up a game away from the 3A State Tournament, and return much of their core that has helped the Norse program become the queens of the Heart of Iowa Conference. But after back-to-back conference crowns, the Norsemen have their eyes set on the biggest goal.
Front Row
A veteran front line headlines this strong Norsemen group, which returns kills leader Brookelyn Jondle, who had 355 kills a season ago, as well as middle hitter Maddi Lucas, who totaled 212 kills and a team-high 70 blocks. Fellow senior Emma Truesdell will see an expanded role after 108 kills and 40 blocks, as setter Miley Geise provides good rotational sets in the front row, registering 30 blocks in 2025. Expect senior Riley Johnson to have a greater impact in the front row as well in 2026
Back Row
Departures stung the Norsemen’s back row some from 2025, but Roland-Story still manages to return their defensive ace in junior Karsyn Lande at libero, who was first-team all-conference a season ago with 355 digs. Brookelyn Jondle and Miley Geise have proved to be elite back row defenders, with Jondle recording 326 digs, as Geise totaled 204 digs and is one of the state’s top setters returning after 811 assists last season. Junior Lillian Braucher also provides added depth, with the ability to play at the setter spot and as a defensive specialist as well, as senior Riley Johnson will be someone who can play a versatile style in the back row.