The Nemaha Central Volleyball team started the 2021 season strong with an undefeated showing and tournament win in Marysville on Saturday. 

The Thunder opened up the tournament with a straight sets win over Valley Heights, 25-15 and 25-19. They would follow that with a straight sets win against Chapman, 25-11 and 25-12. 

Straight sets would continue for Nemaha Central as they took care of Shawnee Mission West, 25-14 and 25-16. The Thunder followed that up with a rematch with Shawnee Mission West for a spot in the championship match, and once again pulling out a straight sets victory, 25-15 and 25-17. 

The Thunder finished off a fantastic weekend with a championship match victory over Royal Valley to begin the season on a hot start. 

As to Royal Valley, the Panthers played well all day long going 4-0 in pool play with wins over Riley County, Concordia, Washington County, and defending state champion Sabetha. 

Sabetha finished just 1-3 on the day, while Valley Heights was 2-2. 

**Picture courtesy of Darrel Kohlman**