TREYNOR, Iowa – Self-confidence hasn't been in short supply of late for members of the Treynor volleyball team.

The Class 1-A No. 4 Cardinals cruised through most of their postseason bracket before winning a four-setter against No. 15 Stanton in a regional final a week ago. They won the Western Iowa Conference regular-season title and own a 36-4 record.

Now they're gearing up for their first state tournament match since 2006.

But senior Tayler Geer knows firsthand how fleeting that confidence can be in the heat of a close game. The 5-foot-10 outside hitter is the only member of the team who has played in the tournament.

“It was an awesome experience walking into the gym and looking up at everyone, because no one is on the same level as you,” Geer said. “It's like your adrenaline is going like no other. It's really overwhelming when you get there.”

That's why Treynor is planning to draw more from its shortcomings than accomplishments when it engages No. 12 Southern Cal (25-10) at the U.S. Cellular Center on Thursday at 1 p.m.

The Cardinals' four losses have come against Underwood, Class 2-A No. 9 IKM-Manning and Class 4-A No. 7 Abraham Lincoln (twice). The latter two qualified for the state tournament, while Underwood lost to IKM-Manning in a regional final.

The two setbacks to the Lynx in particular have encouraged the Cardinals. Though each match was a sweep, the smaller school threatened to win sets both times.

“We're definitely going to be playing up to the level we know we can play at (at state) because we know what to expect from the higher teams,” said Treynor junior Kaitlin Floerchinger. “And the lower teams, we'll say, ‘This team is not as good as A.L., and we almost beat A.L., so we can play even with this team.'”

Treynor coach Janet Fiene welcomes anything that can bring some perspective and calm to the emotionally charged state matches. It's especially important for this year's group, which consists of just two seniors, and only one with state experience.

Fiene should know. Thursday will mark her 13th state appearance with a Treynor team looking to win its first state volleyball title.

“Every team there is top notch, and it's high-level competition and fast-paced volleyball,” Fiene said. “Basically we've got to be prepared for point-for-point five sets if needed. This is the time, the moment to prove to yourself that you're worthy of being there. ”

Floerchinger heard stories from her older sister, Danielle, about how great the atmosphere was in 2006. Geer and Fiene encourage everyone to enjoy the week, because there's no guarantee of ever going back.

“It's our team going,” said senior Nichole Easton. “It's a special thing.”

With a win Thursday, Treynor would play the winner between New London (30-9) and No. 3 Schaller-Crestland (31-3) Friday night at 6.

Geer would be a big part of that. She is the team's kill leader with 4.1 per game and led the Cards to the win over Stanton despite spraining her right ankle the day before.

“Pretty much the whole game I couldn't feel my foot, but once the adrenaline started going, I didn't feel it really,” Geer said, adding that she should be 100 percent by match time.

Fiene said that her team will have to avoid second-set letdowns like it did against Stanton if it wants an extended weekend in Cedar Rapids.

“Qualifying for the state tournament is sheer joy, and it's everything you hope for and work for all year long,” Fiene said. “You celebrate at that time, and now it's time to get down to business and start focusing on the next match.”