Lady Loggers look to build on growth, consistency in 2026

The Libby Lady Loggers enter the 2026 volleyball season with a talented group of athletes and a growing interest in the program under head coach Angie Houston.

“Our expectations this year are to continue building a competitive program and to improve every time we step on the court. We have a great group of athletes who are working hard, and I expect them to compete, play together as a team, and represent our program well.”

Libby comes into the new season after a year Houston described as an important step in the program’s development. While the Lady Loggers experienced both successes and challenges, Houston believes the lessons from those moments should benefit the team’s returning players.

“Last year was a season with a lot of growth. We had some ups and downs, but I was proud of the progress we made throughout the season," she said. "We learned a lot about what it takes to compete consistently, and I think those experiences have helped prepare our returning players for this year. We’re excited to build on that and continue moving the program forward.”

Numbers are always important for a program's health and Libby welcomed a big squad this year into the gym.

“We had a great turnout this year with 30 players coming out for the program. It’s exciting to see those numbers and the continued interest in volleyball,” Houston said.

At the varsity level, seniors Rylee Delmas and Leah Rusdal will help set the tone as Libby’s co-captains.

Houston said the two seniors bring different qualities to the floor, with Delmas providing dependability and Rusdal supplying energy and intensity.

“Rylee brings a strong level of consistency to the court and is someone we can depend on in big moments," Houston said. "Leah brings a huge amount of energy and intensity that really feeds the rest of the team. They lead in different ways, but they complement each other really well, and I’m excited to see them step into those leadership roles this season.”

While the Lady Loggers will lean on their veteran leadership, a freshman has already earned an opportunity to contribute at the varsity level. Charlotte Sherbo secured a varsity spot as Libby’s second setter and has impressed Houston with both her talent and continued development.

“Sherbo is definitely a newcomer to keep an eye on this season. She earned a spot on varsity as our second setter and has an amazing set of hands," Houston said. "She has a lot of natural ability and continues to improve every day. We’re excited to see her gain experience at the varsity level and watch her confidence grow throughout the season.”

Houston sees Libby’s overall skill level as one of the team’s biggest assets this fall. Turning that talent into sustained success, however, will depend on the Lady Loggers maintaining their focus and level of play throughout an entire match. Houston said mental toughness and responding to adversity will be important areas for the team.

“Our biggest challenge will be maintaining that level of play from the first point to the last," Houston said. "We need to work on staying mentally tough, pushing through adversity, and not letting a few mistakes or lost points change the way we play. If we can stay confident, consistent, and continue fighting throughout an entire match, I think this team has a lot of potential.”

With a large turnout, experienced senior leadership and young players beginning to emerge, Houston enters the season optimistic about what the Lady Loggers could accomplish. She said the atmosphere surrounding the team has added to that excitement.

“I’m really excited for this season and grateful to have such an amazing group of players. They’re hardworking, competitive, and a lot of fun to coach. There’s a great energy in the gym, and I’m excited to see what this group can accomplish together. I think we have the potential for a really special season.”