Energized Manteo Volleyball Hunts for First State Championship in School History

Written by Christian Bateman

MANTEO, N.C. — Manteo High School volleyball is one win away from making history. The Lady Redskins will take the court Saturday with an opportunity to capture the first volleyball state championship in school history when they face Cherokee in the NCHSAA 2A State Championship.

Manteo will travel to Campbell University’s Gore Arena for a 1:30 p.m. matchup against Cherokee, with a state title on the line. The Lady Redskins enter the championship with a 20-3 record after earning the No. 2 seed in the East Region and battling their way through the postseason.

Saturday’s appearance marks another significant milestone for a Manteo athletic program that has continued to build its postseason résumé. The volleyball team previously reached the state championship in 2003 against Fred T. Foard High School. This year’s squad now has an opportunity to bring home the first state title in program history and add another memorable chapter to Manteo athletics.

Since head coach Heather Sulkowski returned to her alma mater in 2021, the Lady Redskins have continued to establish themselves as a competitive postseason program. Player development, leadership and team unity have been central to the program’s progress, helping Manteo build the foundation for a championship opportunity.

Tuesday night’s Eastern Regional Final showcased the intensity, determination and resilience that have defined the Lady Redskins throughout the season. With one game remaining, Manteo will look to carry that same energy and execution into Saturday’s championship matchup.

When asked what has fueled the team’s remarkable postseason run and how the players are approaching Saturday’s championship, Sulkowski pointed to the importance of leadership and the experience the team has shared throughout the season.

“Last season we had some injuries and struggled with leadership. Had a lot of young players. This year leadership was the key to our success. We had such a great time at team camp (held at Campbell University) and the girls are looking forward to going back!

“They are ready to play!”

That confidence will be crucial as the Lady Redskins prepare for the biggest match of their season. With strong leadership, team chemistry and the momentum of a successful postseason behind them, Manteo will take the floor Saturday knowing it is one victory away from making school history.

For Sulkowski and her players, the opportunity is about more than winning a championship. It is a chance to reward the program’s continued growth, represent their community and leave a lasting legacy for future generations of Manteo volleyball.

On Saturday afternoon at Gore Arena, the Lady Redskins will have their opportunity to finish the job and bring a state championship home to Manteo.