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Photo Credit: Pat Sutphin, GameFrame Photography
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Here come the Bulldogs! Kimberly High School is having an excellent 2026 volleyball season, entering October as one of Idaho’s strongest programs overall.
Season at a glance:
• Overall record: 25-6
• Conference record: 2–0 (first place in conference)
Kimberly started the year strong, winning 6 of its first 7 matches at the Peg Peterson Tournament, including victories over Jerome, Pocatello, Minico, Idaho Falls, Middleton and Highland. The Bulldogs two losses at that tournament both came against Rigby.
The program then put together a strong run through the regular-season schedule, defeating teams including Snake River, Minico, Twin Falls, Buhl, Filer, Gooding and Sugar-Salem. Several of those victories were dominant straight set wins.
Kimberly also showed it can compete against some of Idaho's best teams. At the ThunderBee Volleyball Classic, the Bulldogs defeated Bear Lake, Pocatello, Evanston (WY) and Lake City while also pushing Rigby to three sets. They finished the tournament with losses to Madison and Rigby (also top programs in the state). At the Rocky Mountain Invitational in early October, Kimberly continued its strong play, picking up wins over Thunder Ridge (3-2), Columbia (3-0) and Boise (3-0).
The Bulldogs 25-6 record and No. 1 4A ranking make them a legit team to watch in the postseason. Their resume is particularly impressive because the five losses have come against high-level competition. The roster is also experienced, with several seniors listed in the starting group, including Presley Giles, Taysia Hudson, Karlie Bair, Taya Plew and Lainah Thuernagle. Additionally, juniors and sophomores provide depth.
Key Players:
Taya Plew — Sr., Outside Hitter
At 6'0", Plew gives Kimberly a major presence at the net and is one of the team's key senior attackers. She has a strong impact in the front and back row as she helps lead the Bulldogs to stay confident and collected.
Taysia Hudson — Sr., Middle Hitter
A senior middle who is central to Kimberly's blocking and quick attack.
Lainah Thuernagle — Sr., Opposite
Another experienced senior front-row player, giving Kimberly versatility.
Shelby Heider — Sr., Outside/DS
A six-rotation-type player who combines outside-hitting experience with defensive responsibilities.
Avery Beard — Jr., Setter
One of Kimberly's two listed setters and an important piece of the offense's distribution.
Presley Giles — Sr., Setter
The other experienced setter, giving Kimberly significant depth at the position.
Kynlee Klingler — So., Outside Hitter
A younger player worth watching. She’s listed as an outside hitter and is 5'11", giving Kimberly another substantial attacking option. Klinger plays a lot of volleyball and takes on a big role as a sophomore, scoring and passing-wise.
Brooklyn Verwey — Jr., Libero
A key defensive player in the back row.
Bottom Line:
Kimberly volleyball is putting together a memorable 2026 season. At 25-6 overall and 2-0 in conference play, the Bulldogs sit atop their conference and are ranked No. 1 in Idaho's 4A classification. They are building great team chemistry and trusting each other as teammates as you can see while they play. There’s lots of talk while they play and lots of movement together. They are on the rise.
Districts are right around the corner, which is CRAZY. Volleyball season is coming to the postseason quick!!! Good luck to all!!! Excited for what is to come!!