The Emmaus High School girls volleyball team was under the direction of a new head coach in 2024 and there were some bumps along the way, but also some success as well. The Hornets finished the year 14-7 overall and qualified for both the Eastern Pennsylvania Conference and District 11 4A tournaments.

Emmaus fell in its opening game of EPC tournament, but bounced back and won its district quarterfinal in sweeping Northampton, before dropping a five-set match in the semifinals to rival Parkland.

Year two under head coach Jessica Olang, the Hornets look to build upon last season and hoist some gold medals.

In 2025, Emmaus will have a large and talented senior class, including setter Alyssa Heffner, outside hitter Maleya Hinds, defensive specialist Sophia Freemont, opposite hitter Kylie Heffner, outside hitter Amanda Rivera and Claudia Walls and defensive specialists Haley Seidel and Corrine Slivka.

Some key newcomers looking to break into the lineup include juniors middle hitters Draya Flowers and Rosie Landino, setter Ashley Hoppes and defensive specialist Keira Martino.

“These athletes have worked and are continuing to work hard not only physically but mentally,” said Olang. “The coaching staff is challenging them to level up in every way. Especially when it comes to team unity. These young women are tremendously strong athletes and skilled, experienced volleyball players. Their ability to connect, see past themselves, and be for each other is transforming the vulnerability and energy in the gym.”

Olang mentioned the work that the team has put into the offseason and now preseason, looking to climb to the top of the league and district.

“The sky’s the limit,” Olang said. “Right now, we are putting in the work it takes in the gym to produce our desired outcomes.”