The Hinton volleyball team made their presence felt in Class 2A last year with 27-3 record and an appearance in the state semifinals. Now, the Blackhawks are a known force and are expected to do great things this season. Co-Head Coach Robin Mohr says you would not know that by watching the Blackhawks practice. He says they are working just as hard if not harder than any other season to improve.
This Blackhawk team has been busy already this summer hitting camps and tournaments at the University of South Dakota and Creighton University. That is on top of the girls who participate in club volleyball during the summer.
These summer reps are important for Hinton’s development. Coach Mohr says, after last year’s loss, they knew that hard work had to start earlier to lead to big results later.
Outside of the graduation of key leaders Natalee Junck and Aubree Lake, the Blackhawks return a lot of experience from last year. Ashlyn Kovarna ranked in the top ten amongst setters in assists last year, and UW-OshKosh commit Gabbie Friessen led the team in aces, digs, and was third on the team in kills. Those pieces and more will be vital in getting the Blackhawks back to Coralville.
Of course, Hinton volleyball is not complete without talking about Bailey Boeve. In her freshman year last year, Boeve led all of Iowa in blocks, and was the ninth most efficient hitter in the state. The scariest part? Coach Mohr says her game has improved both offensively and defensively.
That down-to-earth characteristic is evident in all of Boeve’s teammates as well. Coach Mohr says that comes from everybody playing multiple sports and spending time with each other year-round.
As the Blackhawks prepare for the season, Coach Mohr says they are really focused on being better defensively.
Hinton will open their season on Saturday, August 26th in Orange City at a tournament hosted by Unity Christian.
Click below to listen to our full interview with Hinton Volleyball Co-Head Coach Robin Mohr.
