Staff Writer publisher@robconews.com Robertson County News FRANKLIN — The Franklin Lady Lions are advancing in the 2026 UIL Texas Volleyball State Championships after sweeping Coldspring-Oakhurst in the bi-district round of the Conference 3A Division I playoffs. Franklin, the District 19 champion, defeated Coldspring-Oakhurst 3-0, winning 25-7, 25-13 and 25-16. The victory placed Franklin in the area round against Troy, the District 18 runner-up. The matchup is scheduled for Monday, Nov. 2, at 6:30 p.m. Franklin enters with a 34-6 record, while Troy stands at 22-10. Troy advanced with a 3-1 victory over Fairfield, overcoming an opening-set loss to win 25-27, 25-20, 28-26 and 25-22. On the adjoining side of the Region III bracket, Huntington faces Columbus at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 3. Huntington advanced with a 3-1 victory over Tarkington, winning 25-22, 25-21, 20-25 and 25-18. Columbus survived a five-set battle against Sweeny, winning 25-19, 22-25, 20-25, 25-18 and 15-7. The Franklin-Troy winner advances to face the Huntington-Columbus winner in the regional semifinals, scheduled for Nov. 5-7. With its opening-round sweep, Franklin remains in championship contention and is one victory away from reaching the regional semifinals.