This could be a very interesting and rewarding season for Thompson Falls volleyball fans. With Plains, Eureka, Florence and Missoula Loyola in the mix, it can’t help but be challenging.

But a talented core of returnees with another year of experience could carry the day for the Lady Hawks. Five talented seniors return to a Thompson Falls volleyball team that went 13-11 last season. 

With that core back with another year of experience, and a solid group of underclassmen in the mix, optimism is high for the 2024 version of the Lady Hawks. 

By the end of the year, the Lady Hawks put together a 2-1 finish in post season play, dropping their final match to Deer Lodge by a 3-1 score. 

Two of the returning varsity starters from last year are now seniors; Sarah Koskela and Olivia Fitchett, both of whom were instrumental in last year’s above .500 record. 

Right behind those two for head coach Sandra Kazmierczak is a group of talented juniors led by Gabi Hannum, Addi Pardee, Analise Fairbank and Emma Claridge. 

“These girls are a fun group, and they play hard,” said Kazmierczak.  “I think we can be pretty good this year; they are willing to work hard”. 

Also being counted on to help the team effort is sophomore Addy Deal and newcomer Delainy Gerhard, a junior. 

Both Hannum and Gerhard are 6-footers, giving the Hawks a tall and talented front line. 

The rest of the roster is peppered with sophomores and freshmen, part of a promising group on their way up the ladder. 

Thompson Falls gets its volleyball season underway this week at the Choteau Invitational this Thursday (August 29), Friday and Saturday. 

The Lady Hawks play their first home game Thursday, September 5 when they take on Western B foe Mission in Thompson Falls.

    Lady Hawks players work on digging technique during practice this past week as they prepare to open the 2024 volleyball season at a tournament in Choteau. (Chuck Bandel/VP-MI)