The 2024 season was a showcase of grit, rivalries, and rising programs across Class 1A volleyball in Mississippi. West Union and Tupelo Christian Prep led a competitive field of teams that made their mark in the postseason, while several others showed they’re not far behind. Here’s a look back at how things shook out and what to expect as eyes turn toward 2025.
West Union cemented its place as one of the elite programs in the state by reaching the Class 1A state championship. After an impressive postseason that included a 3-1 win over rival Tupelo Christian Prep in the North Half final, West Union’s journey ended with a loss to Stringer in the title match. Still, finishing as state runner-up was a major achievement. With that experience under their belts, the 2025 goal is simple: finish the job. As the reigning North champions, they will be the team to beat next season, though repeating that success will depend on how well they reload after such a deep playoff run.
Tupelo Christian Prep came within a match of the state finals, falling to West Union after a thrilling third-round comeback win over Potts Camp. Their semifinal run solidified them as a force in the North and gave the program a clear target heading into 2025. With a strong core returning and motivation to get over the hump, TCPS will be among the top contenders to reach the championship stage.
Ingomar continued its historic run in 2024, posting a remarkable 41-2 record and sweeping its way to a third straight state title. Their final victory, a 3-0 win over Lake, capped a season of dominance and further solidified their dynasty status. With the graduation of Macie Phifer, one of the most impactful players in recent memory, Ingomar enters 2025 with questions it hasn’t had to face in years. The Falcons still have a championship pedigree, but for the first time in a while, they’ll be viewed as vulnerable. Maintaining their elite status without their cornerstone star will be the defining challenge of the new season.
Potts Camp and Pine Grove both reached the third round and pushed quality opponents to the brink. Potts Camp knocked off Smithville before falling in a hard-fought five-setter to TCPS. Pine Grove, meanwhile, swept Wheeler before their season ended against the eventual state runner-up, West Union. Both programs showed they belong in the conversation and will be looking to break through to the North Half final in 2025. If they can find the right combination of leadership and depth, a deeper playoff push is well within reach.
Smithville, Biggersville, Hickory Flat, and Wheeler each made it to the second round. These programs proved they’re capable of competing on the postseason stage but will now focus on turning that experience into stronger playoff positioning. Earning a higher seed and avoiding early matchups against top-tier teams will be critical if they want to advance further in 2025.
Falkner and West Lowndes made the playoff field but were eliminated in the first round. That experience should be a motivator heading into offseason preparation. With a full year to regroup and improve, both teams will look to build on that foundation and take a step forward in 2025.
With West Union and TCPS leading the way and several others knocking on the door, Class 1A volleyball in North Mississippi promises another exciting ride this fall. The road to the state title starts with offseason work, but come October, every match will matter.
| School | Class | Region |
| BIGGERSVILLE | 1 | 1 |
| FALKNER | 1 | 1 |
| JUMPERTOWN | 1 | 1 |
| PINE GROVE | 1 | 1 |
| THRASHER | 1 | 1 |
| WHEELER | 1 | 1 |
| ASHLAND | 1 | 2 |
| H. W. BYERS | 1 | 2 |
| HICKORY FLAT | 1 | 2 |
| POTTS CAMP | 1 | 2 |
| WEST UNION | 1 | 2 |
| INGOMAR | 1 | 3 |
| OKOLONA | 1 | 3 |
| SMITHVILLE | 1 | 3 |
| TUPELO CHRISTIAN | 1 | 3 |
| WEST LOWNDES | 1 | 3 |
| HOULKA | 1 | 4 |
Comment Below: Who are the teams you think will make a run in 1A this season? Who are some area names we need to keep an eye on?

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