In the world of high school sports, champions are often defined not just by their skill and athleticism but by their resilience, growth, and ability to bounce back after adversity. For Papillion-La Vista South’s junior libero, Kami Dyrstad, these qualities have come to define her—and the Titans volleyball team—as they claim their fourth Class A state championship in the last six years.
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Overcoming Last Year’s Heartbreak
For Dyrstad and the Titans, last year’s first-round upset at the hands of their rival Papio was a bitter pill to swallow. The sting of that early exit left a lasting impression on the team, fueling a collective drive to ensure that such a feeling would never repeat.
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“We don’t want that feeling ever again,” Dyrstad said, reflecting on the loss that shaped the team’s mentality heading into this season. “We all just worked so much harder and realized that nothing is guaranteed.”
The determination that followed that loss was palpable. The Titans not only trained harder but also embraced the challenge of improving together as a team. The bond that they built through sweat and shared commitment was something that head coach Katie Tarman emphasized heavily.
“The ones that were here were humbled from last year,” Tarman explained. “They knew they needed to teach what it took to get there.”
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For Dyrstad, who won a state title as a freshman, the desire to reclaim their spot at the top was more than just a personal goal—it became a team-wide mission. She knew the potential her squad had, and she wasn’t going to let anyone lose sight of that.
“I just knew like the whole time we can really do it,” Dyrstad remarked. “I just needed to make sure that everyone completely believed in us too.”
Leadership on the Court
Throughout the season, Dyrstad’s leadership and vision were evident. As a junior libero, her role on the court went beyond just digging the ball and setting up plays; she became the heart and soul of the team’s defense, constantly rallying her teammates and keeping the momentum alive even when things weren’t going their way.
That resilience was put to the test in the state championship match, where Papillion-La Vista South found themselves trailing Elkhorn South 16-9 in the first set. Instead of panicking, the Titans kept their composure, relying on Dyrstad’s steady leadership to guide them through the rough patch.
“We’ve come back from this before, we can do this,” Dyrstad said of the team’s mindset when the odds seemed to be stacked against them. “There was no doubt in my mind. Ever since I came out of the locker room, I was like ‘we’re winning this game.’”
Dyrstad’s unwavering confidence and ability to inspire her teammates were key factors in Papillion-La Vista South’s dramatic comeback. They surged ahead, sweeping the Storm in every set, showcasing the grit and resilience that had been instilled in them since the previous year’s painful defeat.
A Triumph of Teamwork and Growth
For Dyrstad, this championship felt particularly meaningful. It wasn’t just about winning the title for the second time—it was about proving to herself and her teammates that they could overcome adversity and come together as one. After the heartbreak of the prior year, this victory was a testament to their growth, both individually and as a collective unit.
“Coming back from the loss last year, it just meant so much more,” Dyrstad said, her voice tinged with emotion. “It meant a lot to me the first time, but it meant so much more to me to do it with my teammates and come back from that. It showed a lot from us.”
Dyrstad’s passion for the game is rooted not just in winning, but in the connections she shares with her teammates. While the trophy is a tangible reward for their hard work, it’s the camaraderie and trust among the players that made this victory special.
“Winning is awesome, but winning with a team that truly cares about each other. And is truly maximizing its potential, that’s what it’s about for me,” Tarman remarked after the championship win. “I think these kids were amazing and winning is just the icing on the cake if you can do it the right way.”
A Legacy of Hard Work and Humility
As Dyrstad and the Titans celebrate their state championship, their victory symbolizes far more than just another banner in the gym. It’s a testament to the culture of hard work, humility, and perseverance that has been cultivated within the program.
For Dyrstad, it also serves as a reminder of the value of team dynamics, leadership, and mental fortitude. Whether she’s on the court making a key defensive play or on the sidelines motivating her teammates, she embodies the qualities that make an athlete truly exceptional: leadership, grit, and an unrelenting belief in her team.
With two more years of high school volleyball ahead of her, Dyrstad’s journey is far from over. As the team looks ahead to future championships, one thing is certain: her leadership will continue to play a crucial role in helping Papillion-La Vista South reach new heights. And while the Titans may face more challenges in the future, they now have the experience and mentality to overcome whatever comes their way.
Looking to the Future
As one of the youngest leaders on the team, Dyrstad’s potential is limitless. Her influence on the court is undeniable, and her determination has already helped lead her team to the pinnacle of high school volleyball. But what sets Dyrstad apart isn’t just her volleyball skills—it’s her ability to inspire and empower those around her.
For Papillion-La Vista South, the future looks bright. With Dyrstad leading the charge, the Titans will continue to push the boundaries of what’s possible, both as individuals and as a team. The success they’ve achieved this season, coupled with the lessons learned from their past, will undoubtedly serve as the foundation for even greater achievements in the years to come.
As the Titans bask in the glory of their state title, it’s clear that Kami Dyrstad’s journey is just beginning, and we can expect even greater things from her in the future.
