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The Student News Site of Millard West High School

The Catalyst
The Student News Site of Millard West High School

The Catalyst
The Student News Site of Millard West High School

The Catalyst
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A super interesting debut

Omaha’s professional volleyball team kicks off
Connor Michalski, Staff Reporter
February 20, 2024

The anticipation for the Omaha Supernovas’ inaugural game reached a crescendo as they faced off against the Atlanta Vibe on Jan. 24 at the CHI Health Center in Omaha, Neb. The Pro Volleyball Federation granted the Supernovas the privilege of hosting the opening match of the season, setting the stage for a historic event. In a nail-biting five-set thriller, the Atlanta Vibe emerged victorious with a 3-2 win, captivating the 11,624 fans who filled the stands and establishing a new record for the largest American crowd to attend a professional volleyball match.

Months of intense preparation culminated in this massive clash for the Omaha Supernovas. Their extensive minicamp, which started in December 2023, served as the foundation for building team chemistry and honing their skills in anticipation of the inaugural season. The team’s commitment to excellence shone brightly as they took to the court for their first home game against the formidable Atlanta Vibe.

As one of the seven teams participating in the groundbreaking Pro Volleyball Federation, the Omaha Supernovas hold a special place in the league’s mission to elevate volleyball to new heights in the United States. This league marks a historic milestone as the nation’s first professional volleyball league, providing a crucial platform for players to showcase their talents and contribute to the growth of the sport.

Under the guidance of head coach Kendall White, who has since been promoted due to the success of the team, the Omaha Supernovas boast a dynamic roster that blends experience and youth. Players such as Megan Courtney, Katie Stiling and Maggie Smerek bring a diverse range of skills to the team, fueling optimism for a successful season. The Supernovas aim not only to compete at a high level but also to leave a forever mark on the Pro Volleyball Federation, signaling their determination to be a force to be reckoned with in the league.

Despite the initial setback in their inaugural game, the Omaha Supernovas remain undeterred, eagerly looking ahead to the rest of the season. With a burning desire to make their mark in the league, the team is poised to captivate fans and establish themselves as a formidable presence in the professional volleyball landscape. As the first chapter of their journey unfolds, the Omaha Supernovas are undoubtedly a team to watch, promising excitement and excellence in the upcoming Pro Volleyball Federation season.



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About the Contributor
Connor Michalski
Connor Michalski, Staff Reporter
Connor is a senior at Millard West and he is on his first on the CATalyst staff. He enjoys staying up to date with current events and spending time with his friends and family. Connor also enjoys fishing, camping, and exploring. He also enjoys watching football, as well as other sports like baseball, hockey, basketball, and soccer. His favorite team is the Philadelphia Eagles.