The No. 9-ranked Johnson County Community College (JCCC) volleyball team made an impressive start to the 2026 season, finishing the Season Opening Tournament with a perfect 4-0 record in Rockford, Illinois. They exhibited strong performances, including a reverse sweep against Lake-Sumter State College after initially trailing 0-2. Key players such as Ava Esser and Adalyn Hemphill contributed significantly, showcasing their skills throughout the tournament and securing vital victories against top-ranked opponents.

By the Numbers
  • Ava Esser recorded 42 total kills and a .344 attack percentage over the tournament.
  • Adalyn Hemphill finished with 35 kills and Ashlynn Wilkowski added 33 kills and 39 digs.
State of Play
  • JCCC swept their first two matches against Lake Michigan College and Grand Rapids Community College.
  • The team displayed resilience by staging a comeback from two sets down against Lake-Sumter State College.
What's Next

Looking ahead, JCCC aims to leverage this strong start as they prepare for future matches in the national tournament circuit. The momentum gained may help them build confidence and refine their strategies against tougher opponents.

Bottom Line

The Cavaliers' undefeated start highlights their strong teamwork and individual performances, providing a solid foundation for the remainder of the season. JCCC's success at the tournament signals their potential for a Championship run this year.