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Pahrump Today
By the People, for the People
Pahrump Valley Volleyball Club embraces developmental season with long-term payoff in mind
With lineup flexibility, strong serving, and growing leadership, the team is finding success despite challenges.
Apr. 15, 2026 at 11:48am
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The Pahrump Valley Volleyball Club's adaptable and developmental approach is reflected in a dynamic, cubist-inspired illustration.Pahrump TodayThe Pahrump Valley Volleyball Club, led by Pahrump Valley High School varsity girls and boys volleyball head coach Amber Lugo, has been embracing a developmental season with a focus on player growth rather than perfection. Despite facing challenges like injuries, missing players, and a roster featuring several eighth graders competing against older opponents, the team has shown progress in areas like serving, versatility, and leadership.
Why it matters
The Pahrump Valley Volleyball Club's approach to this season highlights the importance of player development over immediate results, especially for younger athletes. By emphasizing adaptability, positive energy, and building a strong team culture, the club is laying the foundation for long-term success both on and off the court.
The details
The Pahrump Valley Volleyball Club has seen strong performances from players like eighth-grader Emri Wulfenstein, whose confidence and serving have improved throughout the season. Alongside Wulfenstein, fellow incoming freshman Mahina Decambra has also emerged as a leader, helping to set the tone for the team. Coach Amber Lugo has also experimented with lineup flexibility, moving players like Miani Freitas-Faamai across positions to maximize matchups. Veteran players like Xe'ane Kamanu and Heavenly Ware have anchored the team, providing steady leadership and positive energy.
- The Pahrump Valley Volleyball Club traveled to Las Vegas on Saturday, April 15, 2026, to compete in its fourth tournament of the season.
- The team's next major events will be league championships and AAU Nationals, scheduled for the second weekend of May 2026.
The players
Amber Lugo
Pahrump Valley High School varsity girls and boys volleyball head coach, who is leading the Pahrump Valley Volleyball Club.
Emri Wulfenstein
An eighth-grader and incoming freshman at Rosemary Clarke Middle School, who has shown impressive growth in her serving and confidence throughout the season.
Mahina Decambra
An incoming freshman who has contributed to setting the tone for the team with her energy and leadership.
Miani Freitas-Faamai
A player who has been able to contribute across multiple positions, including outside hitter and right side, to help the team adapt to different matchups.
Xe'ane Kamanu
A veteran player who has embraced evolving roles, including setting, and provided a steady presence on and off the court.
Heavenly Ware
A veteran player who has brought positive energy and helped anchor the team through constant lineup changes and challenges.
What they’re saying
“We're playing older kids, and we've got four eighth graders out there. So I can't be upset. They've improved so much, and they're continuing to get better. We're doing all the things we set out to do.”
— Amber Lugo, Pahrump Valley High School varsity girls and boys volleyball head coach
“Every serve, she's smiling more. Even when she misses, she's taking that feedback and applying it right away. She just loves the game, and that's what you're seeing.”
— Amber Lugo, Pahrump Valley High School varsity girls and boys volleyball head coach
“They're leaders. That energy, that joy—it spreads to everyone else.”
— Amber Lugo, Pahrump Valley High School varsity girls and boys volleyball head coach
“Kamanu is completely selfless—she'll step in and set and puts up a beautiful ball. And Heavenly brings so much positive energy. For younger players to see that, to grow from that, it makes all the long hours worth it.”
— Amber Lugo, Pahrump Valley High School varsity girls and boys volleyball head coach
“At the beginning, I told them: be the player everyone wants on their team. And they all strive for that. Through all the changes, they just keep working—and that's why I keep coming back.”
— Amber Lugo, Pahrump Valley High School varsity girls and boys volleyball head coach
What’s next
The Pahrump Valley Volleyball Club's next major events will be league championships and AAU Nationals, scheduled for the second weekend of May 2026.
The takeaway
The Pahrump Valley Volleyball Club's approach to this season, with a focus on player development and building a strong team culture, is a testament to the importance of long-term thinking in youth sports. By embracing flexibility, positive energy, and leadership, the club is laying the foundation for sustained success both on and off the court.
