East Grand Forks program, Lanee Hams reach new ground ahead of state tournament

East Grand Forks, Minn. — The East Grand Forks Senior High volleyball program is making history, embarking on a journey that marks a significant moment for the team and the community. For the first time in 32 years under head coach Paula Devine, the Green Wave are heading to the Minnesota Class AA state tournament. This milestone is amplified by the recognition of junior hitter Lanee Hams, who has earned all-state honors – a first for East Grand Forks volleyball in 53 years, a testament to the program's sustained growth and the player's exceptional talent.

The East Grand Forks volleyball program has long been a source of community pride, but its journey to the state tournament is more than just a sporting achievement. It represents a culmination of decades of dedication from coaches, players, and families who have invested in the program's success. East Grand Forks, situated on the border with Grand Forks, North Dakota, is a close-knit community where high school sports play a vital role in local identity. The Green Wave’s success resonates deeply with residents who take immense pride in their local athletes and teams. For many, it evokes memories of past athletic achievements and reinforces the strong sense of community that defines East Grand Forks.

Coach Devine's Enduring Leadership

Devine, who has led the Green Wave for 32 seasons, including two stints dating back to 1987, has previously guided her teams to four section championships. However, this year's squad stands out due to their athleticism and jumping ability. “A lot of it is we’re very athletic,” Devine said. Her longevity as coach underscores the program's stability and her ability to foster a culture of excellence. Devine’s coaching style emphasizes both skill development and character building, contributing to the team's overall success and positive reputation within the community. The continuity provided by Devine’s leadership has been instrumental in establishing a consistent standard of excellence for the Green Wave volleyball program.

The Upcoming Tournament

The Green Wave will face No. 1 New Life Academy of Woodbury (26-1) in the state quarterfinals on Thursday at 1 p.m. at Grand Casino Arena in St. Paul. The team carries an impressive record of 22-10, fueled by a combination of seasoned players and emerging talent. The tournament's location in St. Paul, the state capital, will provide the team with a unique experience and a chance to represent East Grand Forks on a larger stage. Securing this state tournament berth is particularly significant given the challenges faced by many athletic programs in recent years due to pandemic-related disruptions and budget constraints.

The Significance of This Moment for East Grand Forks

The journey to the state tournament has a special meaning for East Grand Forks, a community known for its strong sense of pride and tradition. Volleyball has always been a popular sport in the area, but reaching the state tournament represents a culmination of years of hard work and dedication from countless players and coaches. For many in East Grand Forks, this is more than just a volleyball game; it's a symbol of community spirit and a source of inspiration for young athletes. The team’s success provides a sense of shared accomplishment and reinforces the importance of teamwork and perseverance. This achievement also serves as a reminder of the power of sports to unite communities and provide positive role models for young people.

A Look Back at Coach Devine's Legacy

Paula Devine’s tenure as head coach has been a defining chapter in East Grand Forks volleyball history. Her commitment to the program and her ability to develop talent have been instrumental in the team's success. She’s not just a coach; she’s a mentor and a role model for the young women she leads. Her two stints at the helm have seen significant changes in the sport and in the school, but her dedication has remained constant. The community recognizes her contribution and is eager to see her lead the Green Wave to new heights. Devine’s ability to adapt to changing strategies and player dynamics has been crucial to maintaining the program’s competitiveness over the years. Her calm demeanor and strategic insight have made her a respected figure both within the school and in the wider volleyball community.

Key Contributors to the Green Wave's Success

The Green Wave’s offensive firepower is led by Lanee Hams, who boasts an impressive 368 kills this season. Sydney McDonald follows closely with 260 kills, while Brooke Hecht (123) and CoCo Williams (117) also contribute significantly. Freshman Camille Julien, who spent the majority of the season on the junior varsity squad, has emerged as a crucial player during the postseason run, adding 105 kills to the team’s total. “Julien is a 5-8 kid, but she jumps well,” Devine noted. “People think she’s not that tall, then she jumps … she keeps going and you don’t.” The team's depth allows them to adjust strategies and keep opponents guessing. This emergence of younger players demonstrates the program's ability to develop talent at all levels, ensuring continued success in the future.

Defensively, Kelsey Spilde anchors the team with 534 digs and a team-high 42 service aces. Hayden Berg orchestrates the offense with 836 assists and 24 aces. Hams’s dominance extends to blocking, where she leads Minnesota teams reporting statistics to MaxPreps with 145 total blocks, ranking her No. 66 nationally on MaxPreps. “Timing and instincts,” Devine said of Hams’ blocking prowess. “Against Thief River Falls, she had a play where she blocked three times. She blocked left, then again and then moved over and put it down. Most people don't get up and down that fast. It’s pretty natural for her.” Her blocking ability is a key element of the Green Wave's defensive strategy. The team’s statistical strengths reflect a balanced approach to the game, combining strong offensive and defensive performances.

Lanee Hams: From Soccer to Volleyball Star

Hams’s journey to becoming an all-state player is a testament to her dedication and adaptability. Previously a soccer player, she began playing volleyball in high school. “When she started in ninth grade, she didn’t have a clue what to do,” Devine recalled. Her remarkable progress highlights the team's overall growth and potential. The transition from one sport to another demonstrates her athleticism and willingness to embrace new challenges. Her story is an inspiration to young athletes considering trying a new sport. This transition also speaks to the supportive environment within the East Grand Forks athletic program, which encourages students to explore different sports and develop their skills.

Kills: Lanee Hams 368, Sydney McDonald 260, Brooke Hecht 123, CoCo Williams 117, Camille Julien 105, Hayden Berg 77

Digs: Kelsey Spilde 534, Emma Pieper 228, Kayla Carpenter 214, Berg 209, McDonald 206

Assists: Berg 836, Pieper 75

Aces: Spilde 42, Pieper 33, McDonald 31, Berg 24, Carpenter 23, Hams 20, Taylee Ganssle 13

The Green Wave’s success is also rooted in the strong volleyball tradition of northwest Minnesota. “There’s good volleyball in the north country in Section 8,” Devine said, referencing Hawley’s two-year reign as defending Class AA state champions. This regional success provides a sense of confidence and camaraderie as East Grand Forks enters the state tournament. The players draw strength from the legacy of volleyball excellence in their region. Hawley's dominance in recent years has set a high standard for volleyball programs in the area, inspiring teams like East Grand Forks to strive for excellence.

The team's journey to the state tournament wasn't without challenges. East Grand Forks swept Barnesville 3-0 to secure their spot, with Hams contributing 12 kills and 8 blocks. “Our team literally made history,” Hams said after the victory. “I’m more excited for that than anything I’ve been excited for.” Senior Hayden Berg added, “I had a lot of faith coming into it with my teammates. We’ve worked so hard.” The team overcame two regular-season losses to Barnesville, demonstrating their resilience and determination. The Barnesville series highlighted the team's ability to learn from setbacks and adjust their strategies.

The Green Wave's path to the state tournament was also marked by a thrilling five-set victory over Wadena-Deer Creek and a quarterfinal win against Park Rapids, showcasing their ability to perform under pressure. The team’s postseason run has been characterized by a collective effort, with players stepping up in crucial moments. These victories demonstrate the team's mental toughness and ability to execute under pressure. The team’s resilience and determination have been key factors in their success.

As the Green Wave prepare for their state tournament debut, they carry the hopes of East Grand Forks with them. The team's historic achievement is a source of pride for the community and a testament to the dedication of Coach Devine and her players. The state tournament represents not only an opportunity to compete for a championship but also a chance to inspire future generations of Green Wave volleyball players. The support from the community will undoubtedly provide an extra boost as they compete on the state stage. Residents are encouraged to follow the team's progress and show their support for the athletes.

Looking Ahead

The Green Wave's success this season has created a wave of excitement and optimism within East Grand Forks, and the community eagerly anticipates their performance at the state tournament. With a blend of experienced players and emerging talent, the team is poised to make a significant impact on the state volleyball scene. The future looks bright for East Grand Forks volleyball, and the program's continued growth promises to inspire future generations of athletes.