The Butler Lady Bears Volleyball team is making waves in Class 2 volleyball, blazing a path toward a record-breaking and historic season. The ladies remained undefeated at 7-0 after a thrilling five-set battle against the Adrian Blackhawks, snapping Adrian’s seven-game winning streak—the first time all season the Lady Bears had been pushed that far.

That match was one for the record books. Senior Kamden Fennewald tied the school record with 51 assists, joining her sister Taitlyn Madison (2020). Senior Georgia McCoun shattered the school record for digs in a match with 43, surpassing the previous mark of 30 held by Lanie Hill and Fennewald. Junior Kylee Dubray tied the school record with six blocks, matching Alyx Gepford’s 2011 effort.

Saturday, Butler competed in the inaugural Central Missouri Volleyball Invitational, splitting 1-1 with Tipton before defeating Holden, Concordia, and East Buchanan 2-0 each. In the championship match, the Lady Bears fell to Pleasant Hill 1-2, recording their first loss of the season.

Despite the loss, Butler dominated on the individual level, claiming four of the 10 spots on the All-Tournament Team—an impressive 40 percent of the selections. Congratulations to Tandee Hiser, Kamden Fennewald, Kylee Dubray, and Georgia McCoun for earning the honor.

Coach Heather Goldhammer praised the team’s chemistry and work ethic, telling Tailgate TV, “What makes this team so special can be summed up in three concepts—hard work, dedication, and teamwork. Every one of these girls came to every camp, league, and workout we had this summer, and most of them put in work during the offseason by attending camps and playing club volleyball. Finally, this group is truly becoming a family. They pick each other up, support each other, hold each other accountable, and, I believe, genuinely enjoy being around each other. It is an amazing thing to observe and be a part of.”

With talent, teamwork, and determination, the Lady Bears are a dangerous team and one of the most exciting programs in Class 2 this season.

photo by Erin Dubray