What’s the true secret behind a two-and-a-half-decade streak of state tournament appearances? For the Western Christian Wolfpack volleyball team, it’s far more than just skill. Their unparalleled family-style culture, forged through shared experiences and unwavering support, propels them forward. Can this extraordinary bond lead them to their 25th consecutive state berth?
The Western Christian High School volleyball program stands on the precipice of an extraordinary milestone, aiming for its 25th consecutive state tournament appearance, a testament not merely to athletic prowess but to a deeply ingrained team culture that transcends the boundaries of the court. This unparalleled success is rooted in an ethos of unity and mutual support, qualities cultivated meticulously to foster an environment where individual triumphs coalesce into collective glory, setting a formidable standard for high school volleyball across the region.
At the heart of the Wolfpack’s sustained dominance is a vibrant, family-style culture, intentionally nurtured by both players and coaching staff to forge unbreakable bonds. Activities extend far beyond typical training sessions, embracing shared experiences like father-daughter bean bag tournaments and overnight team retreats to Okoboji, designed to build camaraderie and emotional resilience. These off-court interactions are critical, transforming teammates into a cohesive unit that operates with an intuitive understanding of each other’s strengths and needs.
Senior leaders like Scarlett Winterfeld and Maggie Van Schepen emphasize the profound impact of playing alongside best friends, highlighting that this deep personal connection is arguably the most vital asset a team can possess. This profound sense of having each other’s back in any situation translates directly into a seamless on-court chemistry, where trust and communication become second nature, allowing the Wolfpack to execute complex plays and adapt under pressure with remarkable fluidity, distinguishing them within the competitive Iowa sports landscape.
While talent is certainly a consistent feature within the program, the driving force remains the commitment to playing for something greater than individual accolades. The 2025 Western Christian Wolfpack, ranked No. 1 in Class 3A, inherits a storied legacy that includes 19 state volleyball titles and a remarkable streak of over 30 wins every season since 2010. This tradition of excellence fuels high expectations, yet the focus remains squarely on the collective journey and the enduring values that define the team.
Head coach Tammi Veerbeek acknowledges the unique challenge of being the “hunted” rather than the “hunter,” anticipating that many teams will target the Wolfpack this season. She emphasizes the necessity of consistency and positivity, particularly when navigating a tough schedule that may include early losses. This strategic mindset prepares the players for the rigors of the season, instilling resilience and a focus on long-term development rather than immediate outcomes, a crucial aspect of sustained state championship contention.
The team’s prospects are significantly bolstered by the return of key players, including 6-foot-3 sophomore middle Morgan Kooiman, who emerged as one of the state’s elite performers as a freshman, delivering 11 kills in the previous state championship match. Alongside other experienced juniors and sophomores who have already seen considerable varsity court time, the Wolfpack boasts an accelerated rate of development, providing a strong foundation of skill and competitive exposure that few high school volleyball programs can match.
Senior players like Bentley Bliek, Scarlett Winterfeld, and Maggie Van Schepen embrace their leadership roles, viewing the season not just as an opportunity for personal achievement but as a chance to mentor younger athletes and uphold the program’s esteemed reputation. They strive to set a powerful example for aspiring players, embodying the dedication and team-first mentality that has become synonymous with Western Christian volleyball, inspiring the next generation to continue the legacy of excellence.
Beyond the returning stars, the 2025 Wolfpack benefits from a promising group of underclassmen, providing crucial depth and reinforcing the team’s strong serving success rate and defensive capabilities, even with a new libero stepping into a key role. The collective experience of the roster, including several girls who have started for three years, ensures that high expectations are matched by a seasoned understanding of the demands of elite competition, poised for another memorable volleyball season.
Ultimately, the Western Christian volleyball program exemplifies how a deeply rooted culture of family, friendship, and collective purpose can transcend individual talent to create a dynasty. As they embark on their quest for a 25th consecutive state tournament appearance, their story is a compelling narrative of enduring spirit, strategic leadership, and the profound impact of a team truly playing for each other, setting a benchmark for sportsmanship and success in high school athletics.
