The Hillsboro volleyball team had significant experience returning this season that led to abounding optimism.

That optimism increased even more when the Trojans won the Douglass Tournament in early October. Hillsboro went from a team that was likely going to have a winning record to a team that was one of the best in Class 2A.

“We are led by five seniors – all of whom have played three or four years of varsity, with three or four underclassmen sprinkled in among them,” Hillsboro coach Sandy Arnold said. “The girls have had a lot of varsity experience, but I think the one thing that has surprised and impressed me the most is their “never say die” attitude.  There have been multiple games where we have been down and have clawed our way back to go ahead and eventually win the match.”

The Trojans are one of the top teams in Class 2A and are primed to make a run at their first state tournament appearance since 2014.

“With the state’s change in post-season play, it is one step harder to get to state than it used to be,” Arnold said. “Although the path to state will not be an easy one, it is one we are willing to work for. Our team holds high expectations every year, so obviously our ultimate goal is to win state.  That has not changed.  Only this year – this group wants to do it NOW instead of never.”

Hillsboro returned Sammie Saunders, who was a second team all-league outside hitter last season. She is second on the team in kills (111).

The Trojans also brought back honorable mention all-league outside hitter Jess Saunders and honorable mention all-league setter Kinsey Kleiner.

“Our theme for the season is “Now or Never” – we know we are lucky to even be able to play this season and are acutely aware it could end abruptly, so we try to play each match like it might be our last,” Arnold said. “Maybe that’s part of the reason these girls have shown so much fight.  Whatever it is, I hope they continue to show it the rest of the season.”