Mount Marty University proudly inducts the 1975–1977 Volleyball Teams into the Athletics Hall of Fame, honoring one of the most dominant and foundational eras in Lancerette history.
Under the leadership of legendary coach Judi (Hood) Faunce (Hall of Fame Class of 2006), these three consecutive teams achieved unprecedented success, compiling a combined record of 103–39. They captured three straight Io-Kota Conference Championships, three SDAIAW State Titles, and in 1977, a crowning achievement: the program’s first District Championship. These teams also qualified and played in 3 AiAW Regional Tournaments..
The 1975 team posted a remarkable 31–8 record, dominating in-state opponents with a 15–1 mark (the only loss coming to South Dakota State University). They went undefeated in the SDAIAW State Tournament, outscoring opponents 1173–744, and claimed Co-Champion honors in the Io-Kota Conference with a 12–2 record. Their season featured multiple winning streaks of 6, 10, and 11 matches—testament to their consistency and excellence.
The 1976 team raised the bar even further. Their 39–12 record included a 13–1 conference mark. The 39 wins remain a Mount Marty volleyball single-season record and tie the all-sport school record, matched only by the 2010 baseball team. This squad enjoyed a 16-match win streak and defeated South Dakota State in a three-set thriller at the state tournament final. The team’s depth stood out—they leaned on an undefeated “B” squad (6–0) for key victories against schools like USD/S and South Dakota Tech.
In 1977, the Lancerettes reached new heights with a District Championship, a level of postseason success not previously available. The team’s toughness, adaptability, and unity became hallmarks of the Lancerette program.
Individually, this era saw the emergence of standout athletes such as Janet Jager ‘77 (Volleyball/Basketball – HOF Class of 1986), Kathleen (Velder) Sobotka ’76 (Five-Sport Athlete – HOF Class of 2019), Enola Reynolds ‘78, and Jan (Zelones) ‘78. Each earned accolades and All-Conference recognition while embodying the Lancerette spirit of pride and excellence.
Together, these three teams built the cornerstone of Mount Marty Volleyball—a tradition forged through grit, teamwork, and championship-caliber play.
