South Medford Sweeps North Medford in Rivalry Match
South Medford earned a straight-set victory over North Medford at Oakdale Middle School.
Updated on Oct. 20, 2026 in Volleyball
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South Medford defeated North Medford in three sets, 25-21, 25-20, 25-21, to split their regular-season series. The victory served as senior night for South Medford.
Why it matters
The win provided redemption for South Medford following a previous five-set loss to their cross-town rivals earlier this season. Both teams are now looking toward upcoming post-season opportunities.
Julia Mitchell led the effort with 10 kills and 15 digs, while Lexi Fiegi contributed 25 digs and Melissa Atonio tallied 19 assists. North Medford was led by Cora Webber, who also recorded 10 kills and 2 aces.
The players
Julia Mitchell
She is a key player for South Medford who recorded 10 kills and 15 digs in the victory.
Melissa Atonio
She contributed 19 assists, 9 digs and 3 aces for South Medford during the rivalry match.
Lexi Fiegi
She recorded 25 digs, 5 assists and 2 aces to bolster the defensive effort for South Medford.
Cora Webber
She led North Medford with 10 kills and 2 aces in the loss.
Brinley Curtis
She recorded 16 digs, 3 assists and 2 aces for North Medford.
The details
South Medford utilized senior leadership and strong team chemistry to control the match flow and overcome North Medford. Conversely, North Medford struggled to find an offensive rhythm against the defensive pressure applied by South Medford throughout the three sets.
Timeline
September 24, 2026: North Medford defeated South Medford in five sets.
October 19, 2026: South Medford defeated North Medford in three sets.
October 21, 2026: South Medford plays Crater.
October 24, 2026: Both teams participate in state playoff play-in matches.
Season Trajectory
This victory moves both teams into a critical phase as they prepare for state playoff play-in matches on Saturday. The outcome adjusts the momentum for both programs as they await the final power rankings that will decide the remaining eight state playoff spots.
South Medford moves to a 7-13 overall record, while North Medford falls to 11-12. Both teams remain tied with 3-3 records in the Class 6A Southern Oregon Conference standings heading into the post-season.
The takeaway
Senior night successes often provide teams with necessary momentum heading into the uncertainty of state playoffs. Maintaining defensive energy and consistent setting proved to be the decisive factor in this tightly contested rivalry match.
What happens next
South Medford is scheduled to face Crater on October 21, 2026. Both teams will compete in state playoff play-in matches on October 24, 2026.
Further reading
For more local sports updates, visit the Volleyball section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Rogue Valley Times.
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