Announcer Insights for the 2025 High School Volleyball Championships

Iowa PBS is bringing you the best in girls and boys high school sports this year, and it all kicks off with girls volleyball championships on Thursday, November 6. If you're new to the sport or just looking to learn more about the game, we caught up with Iowa PBS Sports' on-air announcers and asked them what to watch for in these exciting matches.

Bethany Discher West and Eric Braley will serve as on-air announcers for the girls volleyball championships on Thursday, November 6.

Insights from Beth Discher West

What to watch for:

  1. Pace – A fast-moving sport from the first serve to final match point, volleyball delivers nonstop action that keeps players and fans on their toes.
  2. Teamwork – As the ultimate team sport, volleyball demands contributions from everyone on the court, along with support and communication from the bench.
  3. Energy – From explosive rallies to momentum-shirting plays, the energy on the court is contagious, offering ample opportunities for teams and fans to celebrate.

Why I love volleyball & being an announcer:
I started playing volleyball during high school at DCG (IGHSAU- I am an Iowa girl!) and continued at the D-1 level at the University of Northern Iowa. I love the athleticism and teamwork that the sport requires. I enjoy serving as an analyst for the championship broadcasts to share the teams’ stories and to offer insights to help viewers better understand and appreciate the game.

Insights from Eric Braley

What to watch for:

  1. Momentum Swings - Volleyball is a game of runs. One big block or ace can completely shift the energy in the arena. Watch how teams handle momentum. Great teams stay composed and quickly bounce back after a tough point.
  2. Setter Decision-Making - The setter is like the quarterback of the team. Pay attention to their choices. Do they feed the hot hitter, spread the offense, or use a quick set to catch the defense off guard? Smart setting often decides close matches.
  3. Defensive Hustle - Digs, blocks, and saves show the heart of the game. The best rallies come from relentless defense, so keep an eye on back-row players who keep the ball alive against big hitters.

Why I love volleyball and being an announcer:
For more than 20 years, I’ve had the privilege of announcing Division I and the Iowa High School Volleyball Championships. I absolutely love this sport!  The speed, intensity, and emotion are unmatched. Every set is filled with school pride, passionate fans, and incredible athletes battling point by point. The roller coaster of momentum keeps everyone on the edge of their seats, making the Iowa High School Volleyball Championships some of the best sports entertainment around—truly must-see TV!

The 2025 IHSGAU Girls Volleyball Championships will air on Iowa PBS on Thursday, November 6, with the individual division's matches beginning at the following times:

  • 5A - 10:00 a.m.
  • 4A - 12:15 p.m.
  • 3A - 2:30 p.m.
  • 2A - 4:45 p.m.
  • 1A - 7:00 p.m.