Polk County will open its quest for a third straight state volleyball title on Saturday at home against Wheatmore.
The Wolverines (14-11), who had the highest strength of schedule among all state 3A teams, are the 12th seed in the 3A West bracket announced Thursday. Polk will host 21st-seeded Wheatmore in Saturday’s opening round at noon.
Wheatmore finished the season with a 9-14 record, losing five of its final six matches. The Warriors are led by senior hitters Alexis Holifield and Madeline Mullinax, with Holifield also leading the team in digs. Senior setter Lanie McMahan has more than 500 assists for the season.
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The winner of Saturday’s match will advance to Tuesday’s second round at fifth-seeded McMichael, which received a first-round bye. The Phoenix won the state 2A title last season and are led by legendary head coach Marty Woods, the winningest volleyball coach in state history with more than 850 victories.
McMichael finished 21-10 this season and is led by senior Zoey Bradford, a Belmont Abbey commit.
Pine Lake Prep, Owen, East Surry and North Wilkes are the top four seeds in the 3A West field.
