The Springboro Panthers varsity volleyball team improved to 3-0 on the season Saturday with a gritty five-set victory over the Lakota West Firebirds.

The Panthers appeared to be in complete control after taking the opening two sets, but Lakota West battled back to force a decisive fifth set. Rather than let the momentum shift define the match, Springboro continued to battle, kept swinging, and showed the toughness and composure needed to finish the job.

Reese Aracri led the Panthers offensively with 13 kills while hitting .364, adding 7 digs and 5 blocks. Soniya Stevenson contributed 8 kills, while Sofia Blackburn added 7 service aces and 12 digs. Senior Kaylee Breving added 2 kills, while Mia DeToto also provided a strong all-around effort with 4 kills and a team-high 10 digs.

At the net, Arianna Thornton led the Panthers with 9 total blocks, while Alannah Stevenson added 7. Madison Helton and Emma Gates helped keep the offense moving with 17 and 16 assists, respectively.

The match was a great early-season reminder that no lead is safe and every point matters. After watching a two-set advantage disappear, the Panthers dug deep, regained their momentum, and delivered when it mattered most in the fifth set.

Three matches. Three wins. And a team already showing plenty of toughness, resilience and belief in one another.

The Panthers will look to keep things rolling as they continue the 2026 season on Tuesday, September 1st at 6:45p, when they start conference play, hosting the Springfield Wildcats in the Domino’s Gymnasium. SEE YOU THERE!!!