Harper aiming high in women’s volleyball
The sixth-ranked Harper College women’s volleyball team is looking to capture at least a share of the program’s fourth North Central Community College Conference title since 2005.
And if things go perfectly for the Hawks, that will be en route to a national title.
The Hawks open the season tonight in the 16th annual DuPage Classic in Glen Ellyn.
“The tournament this weekend is very tough — this weekend will be a barometer,” said Harper coach Bob Vilsoet.
The Hawks finished 28-18 overall and 7-5 in the league last season. They bowed out in the Region IV semifinals against Madison Area Technical College.
The Hawks return a talented group of sophomores that include NJCAA Division III all-American setter Alyssa Cazzato (Bartlett).
“I fully expect her to lead the team to nationals,” Vilsoet said.
Cazzato may have company at the setter position this season. Freshman Kelley Sommers (Buffalo Grove) is trying to push her way into the rotation in early season workouts.
Six-foot outside hitter Lauren LaMasse (Hoffman Estates), who led the team with 375 kills last season, will be counted on to lead the attack.
“She has All-American talent, now it’s up to her to prove it on the court,” Vilsoet said.
Another returning contributor is Fremd grad Liz Dotson.
To execute Vilsoet’s vision of a national championship, the seven-member freshman class must flourish.
Many of the newcomers already are familiar with Vilsoet’s system.
Defense will be a key to the Hawks’ success. One of the best defenders may be Andraia Leja (Prairie Ridge). Sara House (Crystal Lake South) and LaMasse could lead the Hawks in several statistical categories. The hardest hitter on the squad may be Stephanie Igielski (St. Edward).
“(Igielski) is going to make it hard for other teams to defend us,” Vilsoet said.
Megan Kollmeyer, a Michigan native, led her high school team to within a win of a state title as a senior. Defensive specialist Sam Wallenberg (St. Viator) is another freshman who could contribute.
“We have a strong chance to win the national championship,” he said. “This is the team I have been dreaming of putting together.”
The Hawks will face a daunting schedule that includes games against two teams ranked in the NJCAA Division III poll. Fifth-ranked Rock Valley made it to the national tournament last season.
The most experienced team in the league is fourth-ranked Madison Area Technical College and Vilsoet said Joliet Junior College could surprise.
The Hawks could meet a Kishwaukee team ranked in the NJCAA Division II poll, in the Kishwaukee Invitational, Oct. 13-15. Harper has been chosen to host the regional tournament Oct. 26-29.