Lady Warriors Capture First-Ever State Volleyball Championship

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TWLN Staff Reporter | The Weekly Ledger News | Local News

CENTRE, Ala. — History was made Thursday as the Cherokee County Lady Warriors captured their first-ever state volleyball championship, outlasting defending 4A state champion Prattville Christian in a thrilling five-set showdown at Bill Harris Arena in Birmingham.

Photo by Billy Garrett: The Cherokee County Lady Warriors won the school’s first state volleyball title on Thursday at Bill Harris Arena. They outlasted defending state champion Prattville Christian in five sets.

The Lady Warriors (51–9) battled through momentum swings to claim the Class 4A crown with set scores of 22–25, 25–20, 22–25, 25–22, and 15–9, sealing a victory that will be remembered for generations of Warrior fans to come.

Photo by Billy Garrett: Cherokee County High School senior outside hitter Nevaeh Gaidurgis receives the Class 4A state tournament Most Valuable Player award on Thursday at Bill Harris Arena.

Senior standout Nevaeh Gaidurgis led the charge with 22 kills and eight digs, earning the tournament’s Most Valuable Player honor. She was joined on the All-Tournament Team by teammates Jolie Alexander (15 kills), Ava Haygood (11 kills, 14 digs), Ellisan Givens (30 digs), and Macy Lea (44 assists).

“This team showed what heart, determination, and belief can accomplish,” said Coach Tiffany Rieger. “They’ve worked for this moment all year long, and to see them bring home the first state title in school history is just incredible.”

Prattville Christian (38–12) delivered a strong performance behind Leah Cate Wilson (19 kills) and Maren Diefenderfer (18 kills). Baylee Rogers tallied 45 assists and 21 digs, while Morgan Fowler added 21 digs. Wilson, Diefenderfer, and Rogers were also named to the All-Tournament Team.

Cherokee County Principal Bobby Tittle praised the players and coaching staff for their historic accomplishment.

“This championship represents more than just a win — it’s a testament to teamwork, leadership, and the spirit of Cherokee County,” he said. “Our community couldn’t be prouder of these young women.”

With the victory, the Lady Warriors capped a record-setting 51-win season, cementing their legacy as one of the most accomplished teams in school history and inspiring a new generation of student-athletes across Cherokee County.