Through Challenges and Growth, Dublin Scioto Volleyball Aims for Their First Final Four

Dublin — A year ago, Dublin Scioto’s volleyball program was riding high with an undefeated regular season and aspirations for the state tournament. They finished with an impressive 27-0 record but fell just one game short of the state final four, losing to Olentangy Orange in the regional championship. As October approaches, the Irish stand at 18-1, closing in on the OCC’s Capital Division title and gaining momentum toward their goal of reaching the state final four for the first time in program history.

Since the 2019 season, Dublin Scioto has been one of the most consistent volleyball teams in Central Ohio, posting a remarkable 133-17 record. Yet, one achievement has continued to elude them: a trip to the state Final Four. Scioto has never reached that milestone, and the only Dublin team to do so is Dublin Coffman. Head Coach Jacqueline Wilson believes her team is on the verge of breaking through this season. “We have high expectations in our program and will strive for another deep tournament run. Last year, we made it to the regional championship, and we’re confident we can be there again and reach the Final Four,” Wilson said.

Currently holding an 18-1 record, Scioto’s journey toward another strong tournament run hasn’t come without challenges. The Irish have faced significant adversity, affecting their lineup and making it difficult to maintain a consistent rotation. However, Coach Wilson praises her team’s resilience: “What strikes me about this team is how well they’ve managed change. We’ve frequently adjusted our lineups due to illness and injury, and everyone has adapted. It’s tough to be selfless with outside pressures about stats, recruiting, or competing with teammates, but we’re learning to accept different roles and support each other, no matter what.”

The one blemish on their record came when they were swept by Bishop Watterson, a moment Coach Wilson describes as a turning point for the team. “Sometimes the most difficult yet crucial lessons come from defeat. We were not emotionally engaged, played uninspired, and struggled to respond when challenged. We learned what it feels like to disengage from each other, and we never want to feel that way again.” Since that defeat, the Irish have gone unbeaten, dropping only five sets in their last 12 matches.

During such a dominant stretch, it’s easy to become mentally distracted or overconfident, risking a potential trap game. Coach Wilson emphasizes that while communication on the court is essential and proritized, it’s the little things that will make or break a tournament run. “We focus on serving, passing, and out-of-system opportunities because executing these fundamentals keeps us connected and selfless. We’re now dedicating more time to team concepts and increasing competition in practice through mini-games and goal-setting, which has been beneficial for us.”

While statistical highlights may point to key impact players or moments, Coach Wilson emphasizes that any player can step up for the Irish. “We don’t rely on just one leader—different individuals have risen to the occasion on different nights. We’re building a team with contributors at all positions.” This approach helps them resist the disengagement they felt against Watterson. “We’re holding this group to a communication standard that’s pushing them positively, and we’re seeing the benefits. Our focus is on discipline, effective communication, and fostering our connectedness both on and off the court.”

As one of the smaller Columbus suburban schools, Dublin Scioto moved to Division II in volleyball this season, separating them from many of their Ohio Capital Conference counterparts and placing them in a new competitive environment. Coach Wilson believes the team is ready for the challenge: “Moving to Division II puts us with schools more comparable in size, so we really feel like we can succeed. Being 17-1 while knowing we still have so much more to give is a great feeling as we head into the postseason, as long as we keep climbing together.”

With all of the postseason anticipation, Scioto still has a division title to wrap up against Big Walnut, with their rematch looming on October 8th. Coach Wilson anticipates a challenging rematch against Big Walnut, “”The last match against Big Walnut tested our resilience, and their defense limited our offensive production. While both teams made errors, we handled serve and pass better, which made the difference. I expect another competitive match next week.”

As the postseason approaches, Dublin Scioto’s volleyball team stands on the brink of something special. Under the guidance of Head Coach Jacqueline Wilson, the players have embraced a culture of adaptability, where discipline and effective communication reign supreme. This focus has empowered individuals to step up when it matters most, no matter their role on the team.

With their crucial rematch against Big Walnut looming on October 8th, the Irish are not just fighting for a division title; they are also pursuing their long-held dream of reaching the state Final Four. The team knows that this could be the year they finally break through and soar to new heights. The journey ahead is filled with promise, and the Dublin Scioto Irish are ready to seize the moment.