Section III volleyball all-stars highlight CNY’s strong fall sports tradition
Section III coaches have named the 2026 girls volleyball all-stars, underscoring Central New York’s ongoing commitment to high school athletics. The announcement comes as teams and fans prepare for championship games at the JMA Wireless Dome in Syracuse.
Thirty-two girls volleyball players from across Onondaga County and neighboring districts earned spots on the 2026 Onondaga High School League all-star teams, according to Syracuse.com. Section III coaches made the selections after a season that saw packed gyms from Marcellus to Lowville and strong showings from both large and small schools.
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Coaches from schools like Marcellus, Lowville, and several Syracuse city schools met last week to finalize the all-star list. The process, which involves reviewing player stats, leadership, and sportsmanship, has become a fall tradition in Central New York. The announcement is a highlight for student-athletes and their families, many of whom have followed the teams all season from the stands and sidelines.
The timing of the all-star announcement lines up with another major event: the Section III Class C football title game at the JMA Wireless Dome. Bishop Ludden-Grimes/SAS/CSAS will face Lowville for the championship, as reported by Syracuse.com. The Dome, up on Irving Avenue, draws crowds from all over Central New York each November, making it a focal point for high school sports and community gatherings.
By The Numbers
- 32 players: Named to the 2026 Onondaga High School League girls volleyball all-star teams, per Syracuse.com
- 2 teams: Bishop Ludden-Grimes/SAS/CSAS and Lowville set to play for the Section III Class C football title at the JMA Wireless Dome, according to Syracuse.com
- 1 major venue: The JMA Wireless Dome hosts multiple Section III championship events each November, per Syracuse.com
What’s new for CNY high school sports this fall
The release of the all-star list marks a major moment for student-athletes, coaches, and families in Central New York. Volleyball, like football, draws strong participation in towns such as Marcellus, Lowville, and Syracuse. Section III covers Onondaga County and neighboring districts, and its competitive leagues have produced state-level contenders over the past few years.
Section III’s volleyball season saw teams from places like Solvay, East Syracuse-Minoa, and Westhill battling through tight matches. Coaches noted increased attendance at weeknight games, especially in schools along Route 173 and out in Baldwinsville. The all-star selections recognize not just individual talent, but also the commitment of entire teams and school communities.
This year’s all-star announcement comes as the JMA Wireless Dome prepares for the Section III football finals. The Dome’s location near I-81 and downtown Syracuse makes it accessible for families traveling from DeWitt, Salina, and North Syracuse. Parking lots fill up early on game days, with fans often stopping at local diners or grabbing pizza on Erie Blvd before heading in.
For many student-athletes, being named an all-star is the capstone to their fall season. The recognition brings attention to the role of high school sports in Central New York communities, where Friday night football and weeknight volleyball matches are longstanding traditions. In towns like Marcellus and Lowville, banners hang in gymnasiums celebrating past all-stars and championship teams, connecting current players to decades of local sports history.
Why this matters for Central New York residents
High school sports are a cornerstone of community life in Central New York, connecting families, alumni, and local businesses. The annual announcement of all-star teams is more than a list, it’s a reflection of Central New York’s investment in youth activities and school pride.
Championship games at the JMA Wireless Dome bring athletes and supporters from across the county and beyond into Syracuse. This influx supports local restaurants and businesses, especially in downtown Syracuse and along key roads like Erie Blvd and James Street. On championship weekends, spots like Pastabilities and Dinosaur Bar-B-Que see lines out the door, and hotels near the Dome fill up with visiting families.
For those interested in the broader impact of high school sports on education and community engagement, CNY Signal’s Syracuse schools page offers ongoing coverage of local school news and student achievements. The connection between athletics and academics remains strong, with many all-star athletes also recognized for their work in the classroom.
Context: A tradition of athletic excellence and community gathering
Section III’s tradition of naming all-star teams dates back decades, with coaches from across Onondaga County and neighboring districts collaborating to recognize student achievement. The JMA Wireless Dome, formerly the Carrier Dome, has hosted championship events for generations, becoming a symbol of Central New York’s sports culture.
Each fall, the Dome’s schedule includes football, soccer, and occasionally volleyball championships, drawing thousands of spectators. The proximity to Armory Square and Destiny USA means families often combine game day with dining or shopping in Syracuse. For more on local dining options during championship season, visit CNY Signal’s CNY dining section.
In addition to volleyball and football, other fall sports like cross country and soccer see similar recognition. All-star lists and championship events bring together students from towns such as Solvay, Geddes, and Eastwood. These gatherings reinforce the sense of community that defines Central New York, with alumni returning to cheer on their old teams and younger kids dreaming of making the all-star list themselves one day.
Section III’s approach to athletics emphasizes both competition and sportsmanship. Coaches meet throughout the season to discuss player development, and many schools host end-of-season banquets to honor all-stars and graduating seniors. The Dome’s championship weekends serve as a reunion for families, coaches, and fans who have followed CNY sports for years.
Looking ahead: What’s next for CNY high school sports
As the fall season wraps up, attention will turn to winter sports and the continued use of the JMA Wireless Dome for major events. The Dome’s central location and capacity make it a preferred site for Section III championships, and its role in Syracuse’s identity is likely to grow as more teams and fans return each year.
For families and students, the recognition of all-star athletes is a reminder of the opportunities available in Central New York schools. The annual cycle of competition, recognition, and celebration is a key part of life in towns from Marcellus to North Syracuse. Many all-stars will move on to winter sports like basketball or indoor track, while others will start preparing for spring seasons.
Section III officials have already begun planning for next year’s fall sports calendar, with discussions about expanding championship events and increasing community involvement. The Dome’s continued upgrades, including new seating and improved concessions, aim to enhance the experience for athletes and fans alike.
Where to check for updates
For the latest on Section III sports, all-star announcements, and championship schedules, visit the official Section III Athletics website or follow local coverage on Syracuse.com. For ongoing updates on Syracuse schools and student activities, check CNY Signal’s local school news page.
📷 Wikimedia / Wikipedia , JMA Wireless Dome , CC BY-SA 4.0 / Public Domain (verify per file)
Sources
- Syracuse.com, Onondaga High School League girls volleyball all-stars, Section III football finals, JMA Wireless Dome events
