CHAMPAIGN, Ill. — November 8, 2025 — The top-ranked Parkland College Cobras are headed back to the NJCAA Division II National Tournament after a dominant showing at Saturday's Central District Championship. Parkland swept both of its opponents—Spoon River College in the semifinals and No. 23 Illinois Central College in the finals—to secure the program's 17th straight national tournament appearance.

In addition to the team title, four Cobras earned Region 24 Division II All-Region honors: Shay McMillen (who was also named Region 24 Player of the Year), Hailey Warfel, Natalie Alexander, and Anna McEwen.

SEMIFINALS: Parkland 3, Spoon River 0

Set Scores: 25–23, 25–14, 25–10
The Cobras opened the day with a 3-0 win over Spoon River, led by 6 kills each from Addie Beekman and Natalie Alexander. Setter Ashlee Freeman dished out 15 assists, while libero Anna McEwen anchored the back row with 23 digs. Bella McKinney added 5 kills and 6 digs, and Shay McMillen contributed 7 kills to round out the balanced attack.

FINALS: Parkland 3, No. 23 Illinois Central 0

Set Scores: 25–16, 25–12, 25–22
With a nationals berth on the line, Parkland delivered one of its most efficient matches of the postseason. Riley Reis was a force at the net with 11 kills on .435 hitting, while Natalie Alexander added 6 kills and 6 blocks. Hailey Warfel controlled the offense with 18 assists, and McEwen continued her defensive dominance with 26 digs. 

With the win, Parkland improves to 48-4 and continues its run as one of the most successful programs in NJCAA DII volleyball.

NEXT UP

The Cobras now advance to the NJCAA Division II National Championship Tournament, held November 19–22 in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Bracket seeding and matchup times will be announced.

For more information about Parkland College Athletics, visit www.parklandcobras.com or follow @ParklandCobras on social media.