Area teams prep for 2026 seasons across sports

Wright State's volleyball program, led by Travers Green, has built a sustained run of success with three Horizon League tournament titles and three regular-season titles in four years, entering 2026 with a strong returning core and high expectations as the team eyes another NCAA berth. In high school volleyball, Adams Central adapts to new competition and schedules while dealing with Isabelle Weston’s torn retina, and Hastings College starts a new era under first-year coach Harley Rhoades after a 6-20 season, aiming to reshape the program and culture. Hastings High anticipates a productive 2026 season behind a healthy, high-profile pitching staff led by Ella Tinsman, with returning contributors and a focus on building on last year’s state tournament run. Doniphan-Trumbull’s cross country program aims to defend its Class D title with a strong returning core led by Kaser Johnson and continued leadership from veteran runners, while Minden’s football program benefits from a wealth of experience as 21 of 22 starters return under coach Jebb Hatch. In volleyball, other area teams like Shelton face significant turnover but rely on a blend of returning players and new leaders to sustain postseason ambitions, emphasizing growth, adaptability, and continued competitive standard. Overall, programs across multiple sports are balancing continuity with new leadership and roster changes as they prepare for 2026, focusing on injuries, player development, and the challenge of competing in evolving conferences and classifications.