2026 State Girls Volleyball Tourney Central

The crack of a volleyball, the squeak of sneakers on polished wood, the roar of a crowd – these sounds will soon fill the Grand Casino Arena in St. Paul as Minnesota’s top girls volleyball teams converge for the 2026 state tournament. This year’s bracket, released this week, promises a compelling showcase of talent across four classes, with all matches taking place at the familiar arena and live streaming available on NSPN.TV. The tournament underscores the dedication of young athletes and the enduring appeal of a sport that demands precision, teamwork, and unwavering commitment.

Tournament Schedule and Class Breakdown

The tournament unfolds across a week, beginning with quarterfinal matches on Wednesday, November 11th and culminating in championship games on Saturday, November 14th. Class AAAA features (1) Lakeville South, (4) Apple Valley, (2) Eagan, and (3) Champlin Park vying for the top spot. The Class AAA bracket includes (1) Benilde-St. Margaret’s, (4) Cretin-Derham Hall, (3) Princeton, (2) Marshall, and their respective challengers. Class AA sees (1) New Life Academy, (4) New London-Spicer, (2) Southwest Christian, and (3) Minnewaska Area competing for the title. Finally, Class A showcases (1) Minneota, (4) Sacred Heart, (3) Mayer Lutheran, and (2) Fillmore Central among others. A full schedule of matches and court assignments is available online through the tournament’s official website. Minnesota Amateur Sports

The selection of Grand Casino Arena as the host venue is steeped in tradition. For decades, the arena has been the focal point of Minnesota’s high school athletic championships, providing a unique atmosphere and a sense of history for athletes and fans alike. The arena’s central location in St. Paul also makes it easily accessible for teams and supporters from across the state. The economic impact of hosting the tournament is significant, with hotels, restaurants, and local businesses benefiting from the influx of visitors. This year’s tournament is expected to draw thousands of spectators, further bolstering the local economy.

Class AAAA: Lakeville South Looks to Defend

In Class AAAA, Lakeville South enters the tournament as the top-seeded team, aiming to continue their recent dominance. Their path to the championship includes a quarterfinal matchup against Alexandria Area, followed by a potential semifinal clash against Apple Valley. Eagan and Champlin Park also represent formidable contenders in this class. The competition promises intense matches and displays of exceptional volleyball skill, reflecting the dedication of these young athletes and their coaches. Lakeville South High School

Lakeville South’s volleyball program has become a powerhouse in recent years, consistently reaching the state tournament and contending for championships. The school’s commitment to volleyball, including investments in facilities and coaching staff, has contributed to their success. The team's strong tradition fosters a culture of excellence and inspires young players to pursue their athletic dreams. The pressure to maintain this level of performance is immense, but the players have consistently risen to the challenge.

Key Players to Watch in Class AAAA

The All-Minnesota team, as selected by the Star Tribune, highlights several key players in Class AAAA. Kaelyn Bjorklund, Lakeville South’s senior setter, is recognized for orchestrating the team’s offense and breaking the school’s all-time assist record. She is a 6-1 point guard on the court, leading her team to back-to-back Class 4A titles. Apple Valley’s Sophia Cowan, a junior, is noted for her impressive career total of over 1,300 kills and 1,000 digs. These players, along with others across the state, exemplify the talent and dedication that define Minnesota girls volleyball.

The Star Tribune’s selection process involved extensive polling of coaches across the state, analyzing statistics, and observing games throughout the season. The result is a comprehensive list of the top volleyball players in Minnesota, representing a diverse range of schools and classifications. The recognition not only celebrates individual achievements but also highlights the overall strength of Minnesota’s volleyball programs.

Class AAA: A Competitive Field

The Class AAA tournament features a particularly competitive field, with several teams boasting strong records and experienced players. Benilde-St. Margaret’s, seeded first, faces Hill-Murray in the quarterfinal round. Cretin-Derham Hall and Princeton also represent strong contenders in this class. The matches promise to be closely contested, showcasing the skill and determination of these athletes. Cretin-Derham Hall Athletics

Benilde-St. Margaret’s has a long and storied tradition of volleyball excellence, consistently competing at the highest level in Class AAA. Their success is attributed to a combination of talented players, experienced coaching, and a strong commitment to teamwork. The team’s ability to adapt to different opponents and execute under pressure makes them a formidable contender for the championship. The rivalry with Hill-Murray is particularly intense, adding extra excitement to their quarterfinal matchup.

Class AA and Class A: Smaller Schools, Big Dreams

Classes AA and A provide a platform for smaller schools across Minnesota to compete for state championship glory. New Life Academy leads the way in Class AA, while Minneota is the top seed in Class A. These tournaments offer a chance for communities to rally behind their local teams and celebrate the achievements of student-athletes who represent their schools with pride. New Life Academy

The participation of smaller schools in the state tournament underscores the importance of providing opportunities for all students to pursue their athletic passions. These teams often face challenges in terms of resources and competition, but their determination and perseverance are truly inspiring. The state tournament provides a valuable platform for these schools to showcase their talent and gain recognition on a statewide level.

Katherine's Take

Watching these young women compete at the state tournament always reminds me of the values we hold dear in this community: dedication, teamwork, and perseverance. The commitment required to excel in volleyball – the countless hours of practice, the early morning workouts, the unwavering support of family and coaches – speaks volumes about their character. It’s a privilege to witness their skill and sportsmanship firsthand. While winning is certainly a goal, I hope these young women remember that the lessons learned on the court – resilience in the face of adversity, the importance of collaboration, and the grace of victory and defeat – are what will truly shape them into strong, capable adults. The families who support these athletes, often sacrificing time and resources, deserve our recognition as well; a stable home environment is a cornerstone of success for any young person.

Community Impact & All-State Recognition

The state volleyball tournament isn't just about the games; it's a significant event for the entire community. The influx of teams, families, and fans brings economic activity to St. Paul, supporting local businesses and hotels. The All-Minnesota team recognizes outstanding players across all classifications. Notable players include Josie Anderson (Sauk Rapids-Rice), who led her team with 347 kills and a .400 hitting percentage; Avery Beckering (Southwest Christian), who had a breakout tournament and recorded 343 kills; and Clara Christ (Chaska), an all-state performer who excels defensively and in the serve/receive game. Other recognized players include Ryah Cotton (Prior Lake), Mesa Jameson (Eagan), Kezlyn Pinckney (Marshall), and Ellie Osowski (Wayzata). Their accomplishments reflect the strength of volleyball programs throughout the state. Star Tribune Sports

The selection of these athletes to the All-Minnesota team not only recognizes their individual achievements but also serves as an inspiration to young volleyball players across the state. Seeing these role models succeed motivates others to pursue their own athletic goals and strive for excellence. The recognition also highlights the importance of supporting youth sports programs and providing opportunities for all students to participate in extracurricular activities.

Resources and Further Information

For those interested in following the tournament, detailed schedules, bracket information, and live streaming options are available on the NSPN.TV website. The Minnesota State High School League website provides additional information about the tournament and other athletic programs across the state. Local news outlets will also provide coverage of the games and highlight key players and moments. Minnesota State High School League

As the 2026 state girls volleyball tournament unfolds, we can anticipate thrilling matches, memorable moments, and a celebration of the talent and dedication of Minnesota’s young athletes. The tournament serves as a reminder of the power of sport to unite communities and inspire future generations. It is a time to celebrate not only athletic achievement but also the values of hard work, teamwork, and perseverance that these young women embody.