SOUTH MISS 6 SPORTS

August 20, 2026

Prep Volleyball: Poplarville hosts OLA in the “Smith Group Realty Homefield Advantage” game of the week

OLA has become one of the top prep volleyball programs in the state under veteran head coach Mike Myers over the past two decades. (Photo by Steve Coleman)

By CURTIS ROCKWELL/Sports Director

The first “Smith Group Realty Homefield Advantage” Game of the week is a huge prep volleyball match-up between perennial state power Our Lady Academy and host Poplarville Thursday night.

Each week during the school year, SouthMiss6 Sports will feature a “GOTW” sponsored by The Smith Group Realty, your “Homefield Advantage” for buying and selling real estate in South Mississippi.

As the volleyball season gets into full swing this week, and the Lady Hornets have gotten off to a good start so far at 7-3 overall. This comes on the heels of a solid 20-9 mark last season when Poplarville captured the Region 7-4A title.

The Lady Hornets are coming off of a 3-0 sweep (25-11, 25-10, 25-18) over visiting Sacred Heart on Tuesday.

Poplarville’s Abby Cowart (serving) leads the way for the Lady Hornets this season. (Photo by Joe Harper)

In that one, Cate Hubbard had five kills and three blocks for PHS, while Libby Wells registered six service aces and 17 assists. Hannah Benefield added 10 digs to the winning cause, while both Abby Cowart and Lexi Gomillion had four kills each also.

OLA, which captured yet another state title last year for what has basically become the top volleyball program in the state, is coming off a sweep of its own as the Crescents began Region 8-3A play Tuesday with a 3-0 at home in Bay St. Louis, crushing Tylertown 25-0, 25-4 and 25-4.

Poplarville’s Lexi Gomillion has been a key player for he Lady Hornets. (Photo by Joe Harper)

Both Lily Amacker and Lola Haas had four kills each in the winning effort, while Madeline Piazza recorded 20 kills. Krissi Pavolini had 12 assists as well.

OLA multi-sport standout Taylor Henley, who helped the Crescents to an impressive 41-4 overall mark on the volleyball court last season, is currently out of action with an injury.

OLA’s Madeline Piazza leads the Crescents this season. (Photo by Steve Coleman)

Thursday night’s match is one of the top non-region showdowns in the state.

Led by a team passionate about providing clients with a positive, personalized real estate experience, The Smith Group Realty team brings years of knowledge, experience, and dedication to helping families and individuals find their perfect home

“At Smith Group Realty, we believe buying or selling a house should be a positive, personal experience. With knowledge, compassion and dedication, we’re here to guide you ever step of the way, helping you to feel right at home every step of the way.

You always have the Homefield Advantage with The Smith Realty Group!” — Devin Smith