HOLMEN — It’s no secret that volleyball is exploding in the village of Holmen.
Ellie Kline is about to play her senior season at Division II Minnesota State-Mankato, but she remembers vividly the excitement of helping the Vikings qualify for their first WIAA state tournament as a senior back in 2021.
Kline — with the help of numerous family members and friends — returned to the Bernie L. Ferry Fieldhouse for two days last week to work with players entering second through 10th grade for the fourth installment of her Ace Volleyball camp.
That, she said is her way of helping continue the success that has already produced a second state tournament since she left.
“This is aways a highlight of my summer,” said Kline, a libero for the Vikings and now the Mavericks. “It’s always great getting back in Holmen, seeing all the kids and knowing how much volleyball is growing.
“It’s great to see all these girls have such a passion for the sport.”
The camp, which was separated into three two-hour sessions over two days, drew 123 participants. That continues a gradual growth after starting with 77 at the first camp in 2022.
Friends — current and former Holmen players — helped oversee drills and hit with campers on the court as players gathered in groups from one end of the fieldhouse to the other.
Kline said the segments of each camp are analyzed each year, and adjustments are made. There is an emphasis on games and competition to keep the learning fun.
“I always love the relay races with the younger kids because they get really excited for it,” Kline said. “For this one, we’re doing a Bjerring tournament, where they go in groups of five and play two (versus) two with each of the kids (in the group).
“I think that’s important for high school volleyball because you don’t get to control who is on your team, and you have to learn to make the best of every situation.”
Kline has been a regular part of the rotation for the Mavericks since arriving as a freshman.
She has recorded 1,016 digs over the course of 77 matches and has averaged 3.85 per set. Kline has also 184 assists and 68 service aces.
Minnesota State posted an 18-9 record last season, and that was its best performance since a 20-9 season in 2011. The Mavericks were 6-22 when Kline was a freshman and 14-12 during her sophomore season.
Minnesota State tied for seventh place in the 15-team NSIC at 10-8 in 2024, and Kline said there are some holes to fill if the team wants a third consecutive winning season.
“We’ll bring a lot of energy to the court and be super-competitive,” Kline said of the Mavericks. “We’re kind of turning a new leaf with some people who haven’t played yet.”
But before that, Kline was happy to be surrounded by familiar faces while doing her part in keeping the Holmen volleyball machine moving.
“My grandparents, my parents are here and a huge help,” she said. “And I have to thank all of my coaches, some of whom are alumni and some of whom are still playing.
“They do a great job of interacting with the kids and bringing a lot of energy.”
