Naperville North Clinches Volleyball Conference Title
Naperville North secured the DuPage Valley Conference championship with a straight-set victory over Neuqua Valley.
Updated on Oct. 21, 2026 in Volleyball
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Naperville North defeated Neuqua Valley 25-19, 25-18 to lock up the DuPage Valley Conference title. The match took place on senior night, providing a highlight for the team's 10 graduating seniors.
Why it matters
The victory cements a dominant season for Naperville North, which boasts an 8-1 conference record. Securing the conference title highlights the successful collaboration of the veteran roster as they head into the postseason.
Naperville North holds a 23-11 overall record compared to Neuqua Valley at 16-17. The championship match concluded with scores of 25-19 and 25-18.
The players
Naperville North
This local high school team features 10 seniors on its roster and holds a 23-11 overall season record.
Neuqua Valley
This competitive high school volleyball program finished the conference season with a 5-5 record.
Joelle Pye-Blacknard
A committed recruit for Lipscomb University, she has tallied 235 kills and 189 digs this season.
Tatum Kelly
She serves as a junior setter for the Neuqua Valley volleyball team.
The details
Naperville North leaned on its experienced senior class during the decisive two-set match. Neuqua Valley struggled to adjust throughout the night, playing the contest without starting junior setter Tatum Kelly.
Timeline
The conference title match occurred on October 20, 2026.
Joelle Pye-Blacknard suffered a sprained MCL during the 2025 season.
Season Trajectory
This victory positions Naperville North at the top of the conference hierarchy, significantly boosting their standing for the approaching state playoffs. The win establishes momentum for the program as they navigate the transition from regular-season play to tournament competition.
Joelle Pye-Blacknard contributed three kills, three digs, and five service points to the championship effort. Her consistent performance throughout the season, including 29 aces and 15 blocks, remains a key variable for the team's postseason potential.
The takeaway
Naperville North demonstrated significant depth and experience by leaning on its 10 seniors to close out the conference title. Their ability to secure a victory despite the absence of a key opponent player highlights the current stability of their roster.
Further reading
For more local coverage, see the Naperville Volleyball section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Chicago Tribune.
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