Columbia High School Volleyball Season Preview

Head Coach Cathy Curtis and the Columbia High School Volleyball team are preparing for an exciting 2025 season with a strong emphasis on developing young talent and maintaining their competitive edge. With the loss of four seasoned players, the focus this offseason is on elevating underclassmen to fill key roles and strengthening team chemistry. Offseason Focus: Developing Talent & Team Play Individual & Team Growth – The team is honing fundamental skills while integrating younger players into high-pressure game scenarios. Next-Gen Leaders – With four key departures, the coaching staff is working to prepare young athletes for the varsity level. Sharpening Defensive & Offensive Play – Building well-rounded players who can adapt to various game situations. Offseason Events & Camps June: Columbia will run open gyms to allow players to refine their skills in a structured but flexible setting. Gold Medal Squared Volleyball Camp (Hosted by Columbia) – A premier training camp designed to develop technical skills and in-game IQ. July: Summer League tournaments and scrimmages at: Skyview Columbia Idaho Falls Local teams scrimmage These events will prepare the squad for the competitive season ahead while fostering team bonding and game-time experience. Key Roster Updates Departures: The team graduated Lacey Dougherty, Tiffany Wirtz, Olivia Whiting, and Mia Barrios, four experienced players who played a crucial role in past seasons. Returning Standouts: Cami Salinas (Senior, Defensive Player) – A veteran leader expected to anchor the defense. Juniors & Sophomores – A committed group of young, talented players ready to step up. With a mix of experienced leaders and promising underclassmen, Columbia will look to reload rather than rebuild in 2025. Weight Lifting & Fitness The team is focusing on building strength, endurance, and explosiveness to improve overall performance on the court. Fitness and agility work will be critical in preparing younger players for the speed and physicality of varsity competition. Nutrition & Recovery While no formal program is in place, the coaching staff emphasizes: Proper hydration before and after practices. Balanced meals to fuel workouts and recovery. Smart snacking for sustained energy during long tournaments. Coaching Strategy: New Season, New Adjustments The coaching staff is evaluating and refining game strategies to maximize the strengths of the current roster. Focus on efficient rotations and defensive setups to compensate for the loss of key players. More game-speed drills in practice to get the younger players accustomed to varsity-level intensity. Fan & Community Engagement: Home-Court Advantage Columbia boasts an incredible fanbase that energizes the team at home matches. The program aims to continue building excitement by encouraging strong attendance and school spirit at games. Community support will be a driving force in motivating the team throughout the season. Biggest Challenges Ahead: Filling the Gaps & Rising to the Occasion Replacing Graduated Leaders – The team must find new voices and key contributors to step into leadership roles. Preparing Young Players for Varsity Play – The biggest hurdle will be getting sophomores game-ready while maintaining a competitive edge. Adapting to a Changing Roster – Learning to adjust and execute efficiently with a new lineup will be essential for success. Despite these challenges, Columbia Volleyball is determined to remain a strong contender, blending returning experience with emerging talent. With a solid offseason plan, strategic coaching adjustments, and unwavering community support, Columbia High School Volleyball is ready to embrace the next chapter and compete at a high level in 2025!