Staunton Junior High Volleyball Wins First State Championship

Seventh grade Lady Terriers defeat Manteno in IESA Class 3A title game

Mar. 18, 2026 at 12:00am

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The Staunton Junior High volleyball team captured their first-ever IESA state championship on March 14, defeating Manteno in the Class 3A title match. The Lady Terriers, who had finished as state runners-up in 2023 and 2025, won the final in straight sets, 25-14 and 25-18.

Why it matters

Staunton's volleyball program has been a consistent contender at the state level, earning 11 IESA trophies prior to this season. However, the school had never won the state title until this year's championship victory, marking a historic achievement for the junior high team and the community.

The details

Staunton advanced to the title match with wins over Channahon and Orion, while Manteno defeated Monticello and Quincy St. Peter to reach the final. In the championship, Staunton dominated the opening set 25-14 before holding off a late Manteno charge to clinch the 25-18 victory in the second set and secure the state title.

  • The IESA Class 3A state championship match took place on March 14, 2026.
  • Staunton had previously finished as state runners-up in 2023 and 2025.

The players

Elaina Oller

One of five Staunton players on this year's roster who also competed on the team's 2025 state runner-up squad.

Manteno

The Staunton Junior High volleyball team's opponent in the 2026 IESA Class 3A state championship match.

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What they’re saying

“This is an incredible accomplishment for our program and these young ladies. They've worked so hard to get to this point, and I'm thrilled they were able to bring home Staunton's first state championship in volleyball.”

— Coach Sarah Johnson, Staunton Junior High Volleyball Head Coach

What’s next

The Staunton Junior High volleyball team will look to defend their state title next season, as several key players from this year's championship squad are expected to return.

The takeaway

Staunton's junior high volleyball program has established itself as a consistent powerhouse, and their first-ever state championship victory is a testament to the dedication and talent of the players and coaches who have built the program into a perennial contender.