2026 Volleyball Preview: Strong senior class keeps Metamora in Mid-Illini title contention

METAMORA — Few teams and head coaches in the Mid-Illini can match the extended track record of success that Tara Ballard and Metamora volleyball has had. One would have to go back to 1997 to find the last time the Redbirds didn’t have a winning season while Ballard has led them to seven regional titles and three sectional titles in her 12 years. 

After two straight 21-win seasons, Metamora is looking to get back to winning postseason hardware in 2026. Despite falling short of a regional title last season, the Redbirds managed to win 10 games in an extremely competitive Mid-Illini and had several players such as IVCA all-state setter Ella Miller and Mid-Illini second team all-conference outside hitter Campbell Brown play starring roles as juniors. 

Fellow seniors such as Junie Wagoner, Tabby Vandeschraaf and Grace Johns will join them this year to form a strong nucleus that they believe can compete with — and beat — anyone in the Mid-Illini. 

Hear from Wagoner, Vandeschraaf and Schultz and get to know about this year’s Metamora volleyball team in its season preview below: