Strong junior class could lead Luray to new heights in 2026 season
By Randy Arrington
LURAY, Sept. 1 — There is reason for optimism in the Land of the “LU.” A core group of junior volleyball players at Luray High School is showing continued progress, and the experience of a few three-year starters should send the Bulldogs back to the Class 1 state tournament in November.
The defending Region 1B champs have gotten off to a better start in 2026 than last season against bigger, non-district competition. Despite their only two losses coming to Harrisonburg, the Bulldogs have swept home-and-away matchups with Class 3 East Rockingham and Heritage (of Lynchburg — one of the largest Class 3 schools in Virginia).
The Bulldogs closed out their season sweep of East Rock on Tuesday night at home in four sets — 25-14, 19-25, 25-17, 25-17. Outside of the second set, Luray dominated a struggling Eagle squad and posted 49 kills spread out among several players. The home team came out of the gate with confidence, serving seven of their 12 aces on the night in the first set.
Junior Zoe Vaughn is making a much bigger contribution this year as she lead Luray on Tuesday night with 14 kills and six digs. Classmate Lakin Vile, who had a stellar sophomore season, produced 10 kills and 18 digs, while fellow juniors Emily Benson and Caroline Donovan, who both started as freshmen, recorded nine kills and eight kills, respectively.
Junior Sierra Forder, another three-year contributor, may be one of the best setters in the region, and she lived up to that namesake Tuesday night while also serving several aces. Sophomore Carleigh Good has stepped in to play libero and has added depth to the Bulldogs’ talent, as she recorded 22 digs against East Rock.
The Eagles were swept, 3-0, by the Bulldogs at home on Aug. 27. On Tuesday night in Luray, East Rock was able to steal a set behind the strong play of senior Caroline Eppard. At 6’2″, Eppard was the tallest player on the court, and she used her height to record six kills and four blocks to lead the visitors. Junior Cora Combs also had six kills. The Eagles also got strong play from senior Maya Ramirez.
Luray has only one senior on the roster this season — just like last season. Reese Fitton, a true leader for the Bulldogs last season, signed with EMU after graduation. This year’s lone senior, Chloe Gochenour, is on the bench with a left leg injury. Luray will be leaning once again on the Class of 2027. Eight of the 12 players on the roster are juniors.
After falling to Lancaster, 3-1, in the VHSL Class 1 state quarterfinals last November, the Bulldogs seek a repeat trip to the state tournament this season with hopes of advancing past the first round.
Up next, Luray (3-2) will host Heritage (Lynchburg) on Wednesday night at 7:30 p.m., before opening up their Bull Run District schedule at 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 8 by hosting Central of Woodstock.
East Rockingham (1-7) will travel to Page County High School on Thursday, Sept. 3, before opening up their Valley District schedule against a tough Harrisonburg squad the following Thursday, Sept. 10.
For more information about LHS Athletics,
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