The Carolina 2A Conference volleyball tournament brought plenty of energy and pride to the court last week as Hobbton, Union, and Lakewood High Schools represented Sampson County with grit and determination. Though none advanced beyond the semifinal round, each team showcased growth and resilience that point to brighter seasons ahead.
Lakewood Focuses on Youth and Chemistry
Lakewood High hosted its opening-round matchup but fell to North Duplin in straight sets. Despite the early exit, head coach Lauren Jackson said there were many positive takeaways from a rebuilding year defined by youth and development.
“We are still young and we only had two seniors this year,” Jackson said. “Next year we’ll still only have one senior, so they have a lot of time to grow—athletically and mentally—and to build more relationships with each other both on and off the court.”
Jackson emphasized that team chemistry was an ongoing area of growth as players learned to communicate and support each other on the floor.
“Chemistry could have been better, but again, a lot of these girls have never played before,” she said. “They’re all competitive and want to win, but sometimes it just takes learning how to talk to each other.”
Lakewood’s coach also noted that none of her current players participate in travel volleyball, something she hopes can change over time despite the financial challenges that come with club participation.
“It’s not that the girls don’t want to play,” Jackson said. “It’s the financial aspect. Travel teams can be very expensive. But they have the potential, and the goal for next year would be to finish at least third in the conference.”
Hobbton Advances Before Falling in Semifinals
Union’s season came to a close in the first round after a road loss to Hobbton, but the Spartans displayed progress throughout the year and continued to improve their consistency on both offense and defense. Competing in a conference loaded with experienced programs, Union’s players gained valuable experience that will serve them well heading into next season.
The team’s younger players saw significant court time during the fall, and with several returners expected back, the Spartans aim to build on the foundation laid during this year’s campaign.
The win reflected the experience and composure of a senior-led roster that had played together since freshman year, according to Hobbton’s head coach Russell Jones
Though Hobbton Wildcats opened their postseason on a strong note, earning a home victory over Union in the first round, they were unable to conquer North Duplin on Tuesday.
Jones praised the group’s effort and leadership throughout the tournament run.
“They’re a good team,” Jones said after Hobbton’s semifinal loss. “We had some miscommunication at times, but these girls have been together all four years, and I’m proud of how they played. You get down eight or nine points and suddenly you’re fighting from behind, but they kept battling.”
The Wildcats’ mix of seniors and underclassmen proved capable of keeping pace with some of the conference’s top competition, showing the depth and teamwork that have become hallmarks of Jones’ program. He continued by saying the effort reflected the group’s dedication and character from start to finish.
Hobbton will be in action today, hosting a state playoff game against East Bladen at 1:00 p.m.
Conference Wrap-Up
After eliminating Hobbton and Lakewood in earlier rounds, North Duplin advanced to the championship where they fell to East Columbus, who claimed the Carolina 2A Conference title.
While the postseason ended before any Sampson County team could make a championship push, the performances of Hobbton, Union, and Lakewood showed competitive spirit and the promise of continued progress for the seasons ahead.