Huskers train kids at Medelmans Lake

NORFOLK, Neb. -- Four Husker women spent Saturday training girls at Medelmans Lake on how to play volleyball. It was part of a fundraiser to buy fireworks for Independence Day at the lake. 

"Fourth of July has always been a huge celebration at the lake," said Chuck Olsen, Medelman's Lake Development board member. 

But the event was more about the game than the upcoming holiday. 

"From the minute we got here everyone was so excited to just hang out and be with these girls, I'm having a great time," said Dani Batenhorst, Gonzaga University volleyball player. She works for Athlete Branding and Marketing out of Lincoln, which represents the Husker Women's Volleyball.

Initially, Olsen said, they planned a full volleyball clinic. They wanted 200 to 300 kids, but then decided it would be more fun to host a smaller group at the beach itself. 

"I love the team aspect of the sport, how fast-paced the sport is, and the energy whether you're playing or watching," Batenhorst said. 

The 33 participant girls learned things like how to communicate, keep the ball up, swing correctly, and have fun with it. The trainers included: Ally Batenhorst, Alexis Rodriguez, Kennedi Orr, and Madi Kubik.

Whether this event continues next year will be up to the team. 

"I'm sure they would love to come back," Batenhorst said. 

If you want to donate to the Medelmans Lake party, you can reach out to the Medelman's Homeowner Association.