Volleyball teams going to Nationals

Boken said that he formed the Aardwolf Volleyball Club three years ago to provide an opportunity for players who might not have access or the financial resources to play club volleyball.

The Pyroclastic team will play in the 64-team American Division, the third tier of the 13s nationals. Three days of pool play begin Sunday with championship bracket play on June 29.

Players going to national for the Pyroclastic are Lauren Ortiz, Madison Nickels, Alexa Handwerker, Reyonna Sutterfield, Reyonnie Wallace, Rhylee Haensel, Michelle Ferina, Belen Kingsella, Lilly Long and Zenora Salanoa. Their head coach is Karina Schmahl, assisted by Lisa Handwerker and Boken.

Excel NW 12 Rox

Unbeaten in the CEVA Power League for 12-year-olds, the 12 Rox team will play in the 48-team American Division, the second tier of the 12s nationals. Three days of pool play begin on June 27 with the bracket and championship play on June 30.

In addition to going undefeated in their 58-team league, the 12 Rox won three of four multi-day tournaments they entered: the 14-and-under division at the Northwest Juniors tournament, the 12s division of the Emerald City tournament and the 12s CEVA Regionals.

Four players on this team were on the 2015 12 Rox squad that finished 23rd in the USA Volleyball nationals at New Orleans. They are Tyra Schaub, Lauren Stemple, Olivia Pederson and Renee Tassin.

Rylie Reeves, Lexi Lee, Avalon Watkins and Paige Stepaniuk were on the 12 Rox Silver team last season. Corin Gutierrez and Danielle Tsague are new to the club this season.

The 12 Rox are coached by Kelly Adams and Amber Aguair. Volunteer assistant coaches are Sarah Kent, Natalie Pederson and Ashley Watkins.