Doniphan-Trumbull falls in challenging conference play
The Cardinals got 4th place in the LPC
By: Xander Foster
Over the past week, the Doniphan-Trumbull Cardinals volleyball team showcased its competitive spirit and resilience in the Loup Platte Conference Tournament. The Cardinals opened the week strong with a five-set victory over Arcadia/Loup City, displaying their ability to rally after early setbacks and finish tough matches. That momentum carried into game two of the tournament, where Doniphan-Trumbull faced some of the region’s toughest competition, ultimately falling in 5 sets. To wrap up the tournament, the Cardinals lost to Centura in the consolation round in 2 sets, finishing the tournament in 4th place.
“They played their butt off, and 4th place in conference play is a huge achievement.” Said Head Coach Danielle Blake.
Doniphan-Trumbull faced Loup City in Game 1 of the Lou Platte Conference Tournament, kicking off the action with intensity and determination. Both teams came ready to compete, showcasing strong defense and high energy from the start. The matchup set the tone for the tournament, highlighting the skill, teamwork, and rivalry that define the Lou Platte Conference basketball.
“We started slow but finished strong for the win,” said senior setter Lily Elsbury.
In their marquee matchup against St. Paul, the Cardinals battled through a thrilling five-set contest. After dropping the first two sets, Doniphan-Trumbull stormed back to win the next two, forcing a decisive fifth set. Although they ultimately fell short 15-10, the performance highlighted their tenacity and refusal to back down. Senior Charlee Richter led the offense with 24 kills, while seniors Baylee Larson and Kinley Kaczor anchored the defense with a combined 49 digs. The team’s energy and hustle kept them in the game, but serving errors and inconsistency at the net proved costly in the final moments.
“Our defense played the best it has been all year”, said junior DS Lauryn VanDiest
Doniphan-Trumbull and Centura faced off in an intense Lou Platte Conference volleyball matchup filled with energy and determination. Both teams battled hard at the net, trading powerful serves and long rallies. Centura’s consistent defense and strong attacks helped them edge ahead, while Doniphan-Trumbull showed grit and teamwork throughout the match. The game highlighted the competitive spirit of both squads and the excitement of conference play.
“We played really flat at the start of the game, and then started to settle into it to the end,” said senior middle Emma Hoppe
Despite the result, Doniphan-Trumbull demonstrated growth and competitiveness throughout the week. Their strong defensive play and ability to push top teams to the limit show that they are on the verge of breaking through. With continued focus on consistency, serving pressure, and finishing sets, the Cardinals are poised to turn close matches into victories as postseason play approaches.
In all, this week underscored the grit, teamwork, and heart that define the Doniphan-Trumbull volleyball program. While the results didn’t all go their way, their play reflected a team that competes with pride and potential, one capable of making noise in the weeks ahead. They’ll begin district play tonight as they take on Gibbon at Centura.