MITCHELL, SD (Mitchell Now) — Deb Thill led the Mitchell Kernels Volleyball team back onto the floor at the State Tournament for the first time since 2018 this last weekend. The Kernels punched their ticket in front of a packed crowd at Mitchell’s new high school gym, defeating Spearfish in the SoDak 16 and capping off a season Thill describes as “a dream.” Now in her 35th year at the helm, Thill said this turnaround wasn’t accidental. After finishing ninth in the ESD last year, Mitchell jumped to third, hosted a SoDak 16 match, and ultimately secured a long-awaited place at State sweeping Spearfish 3 sets to 0. Coach Thill is assisted by coaches: Christina Siemsen, Katrina Talley, Amy Uher, and Cait Way.

Leadership from seniors Addie Siemsen, Audrey Miller, Kenna Soulek, and Kambyl Wede have anchored the Kernels’ surge. Siemsen ranks near the top in nearly every statistical category, Miller and Wede are incredibly consistent players contributing to the team’s success and Soulek, the team’s libero, has been the emotional heartbeat on and off the court.

With momentum behind them and a renewed sense of belief, the Kernels headed into the state tournament embracing the same mindset that carried them this far: stay present, stay tough, and find a way. After facing the strongest lineups in Class AA in South Dakota, the Kernels never backed down, battling point-for-point and proving they belonged among the state’s best. Their determination carried them all the way to an impressive eighth-place finish. Solidifying a season defined not just by wins, but by heart, grit, and undeniable growth.

For the Kernels, this run wasn’t just about placement, it was about proving they could compete with anyone, anywhere. And they did exactly that! The Kernels closed the season feeling deeply grateful for the outpouring of community support. From sponsors, to fans, to the families who cheered them on every step of the way. Way to go, girls… you made Mitchell proud.