The Hamlin (Hayti, SD) varsity volleyball team is set to play a neutral-site playoff match against Dell Rapids (SD) today. This game is part of the “2024 SDHSAA High School Volleyball Playoff Brackets (South Dakota) – 2024 Class A State Tournament.”

Hamlin vs Dell Rapids Volleyball Game Info:

What: South Dakota High School Volleyball
Who: Hamlin vs Dell Rapids
When: Friday, November 22, 2024
Time: TBD
Bracket: 2024 SDHSAA High School Volleyball Playoff Brackets (South Dakota) – 2024 Class A State Tournament
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Game preview: Hamlin vs Dell Rapids

The Dell Rapids and Hamlin volleyball teams are gearing up for an exciting playoff showdown, each bringing impressive records and high-level performances to the table. Both teams have enjoyed dominant seasons, but it’s Dell Rapids who has the edge in their previous encounter earlier this season.

Team Overview

Dell Rapids has posted an outstanding 30-3 record, including a perfect 6-0 mark in their region. Their strong season has been built on a solid mix of offensive power, with 1,105 kills, and defensive strength, boasting 144 total blocks. They’ve shown a balanced team effort, leading in digs (1,007), assists (981), and receptions (1,252). The squad’s depth is apparent, with standout performances from Madelynn Henry (426 kills) and Lauryn Kloth (72 total blocks), while Alaina Wolff anchors the defense with 240 digs and 473 receptions.

On the other hand, Hamlin has compiled a formidable 26-1 record, dominating their region with an unblemished 8-0 regional performance. Their team, while smaller in total kills (918) compared to Dell Rapids, has proven its offensive consistency. They’ve also been a tough team to beat in the backcourt, tallying 1,111 receptions and 1,432 digs. Key contributors for Hamlin include Addie Neuendorf, with 360 kills, and Issie Steffensen, who leads with 740 assists. Despite their impressive season, they’ll be looking to avenge a loss to Dell Rapids earlier in the year.

Head-to-Head: Dell Rapids Victorious in Early Meeting

The two teams previously met on September 21, 2024, in a non-conference match where Dell Rapids secured a 2-0 victory. The match featured impressive performances from Madelynn Henry and Clara Justice, who contributed to Dell Rapids’ strong offensive push. Despite Hamlin’s resilience, with standout performances from Addie Neuendorf and Issie Steffensen, they couldn’t overcome Dell Rapids’ strong team play and ultimately fell in straight sets.

Team Scoring Averages and Stat Comparison

Both teams have averaged similar scoring across the season, with Dell Rapids posting slightly higher team averages in each set (24.6, 24.4, 24.9, 25.0) compared to Hamlin’s (24.2, 24.7, 24.4, 23.5). The consistency across all four sets speaks to the steady performance from both teams throughout the season.

When it comes to key statistical categories, Dell Rapids leads in most major categories, including total kills (1,105), serving aces (292), and total assists (981). However, Hamlin is no slouch in these areas, with strong contributions from Neuendorf and Steffensen. Their solid defense, ranking high in digs and receptions, should not be overlooked as a key factor in their playoff success.

Record Breakdown

• Dell Rapids
  Overall: 30-3
  Region: 6-0
  Home: 9-0
  Away: 9-0
  Neutral: 12-3
  Playoff: 3-0
• Hamlin
  Overall: 26-1
  Region: 8-0
  Home: 16-1
  Away: 10-0
  Neutral: 0-0
  Playoff: 3-0

Both teams come into this match with a perfect regional record, demonstrating their dominance in conference play. Dell Rapids, with fewer overall losses, will look to continue their run, but Hamlin’s experience on the road and at home may give them an advantage in a neutral playoff setting.

Common Opponents

Both teams have had success against common opponents, boasting perfect 5-0 records against teams like Elkton/Lake Benton, Tiospa Zina, Groton, Flandreau, and Roncalli. Their ability to dominate these teams speaks to the high caliber of both squads, setting the stage for an exciting postseason battle.

Conclusion

As Dell Rapids and Hamlin square off in the playoffs, all eyes will be on this high-stakes matchup between two of South Dakota’s best teams. With Dell Rapids having already triumphed earlier this season, Hamlin will be out for redemption, but Dell Rapids will be looking to extend their dominance. With key players on both sides capable of taking over a match, the upcoming contest promises to be an intense and thrilling showdown.