Harper impresses in N4C opener

Tuesday's North Central Community College Conference women's volleyball opener was more than just first game of the conference slate for Harper.

Madison College (3-4, 0-1) came into the match ranked No. 1 in this week's NJCAA Division III poll, while the host Hawks (5-2, 1-0) checked in at No. 7.

The home crowd left happy as Harper (5-2, 1-0) came away 25-16, 25-18, 25-16 sweep of the Wolfpack (3-4, 0-1).

Harper coach Bob Vilsoet was especially pleased to pick up the decision against such a quality opponent.

"It's good to have this win behind us," he said.

Harper improved to 2-1 against NJCAA-ranked foes this season.

"I am very proud of the team," Vilsoet said. "Madison is a good team, they will be back."

In the first set, Madison had crept within 17-14 when Hawks sophomore Adriana Loiacono scored 3 of the next 4 points (on 2 blocks and a kill).

After a win in the first set, Harper sophomore Meghan Chartier (Buffalo Grove) stepped to the service line to open the second. The Hawks rattled off the game's first 4 points, including an ace on the final point of the run.

With the Hawks leading 17-9, Chartier stepped to the line once again, helping guide a run in which Loiacono again excelled.

"It shows what we can do," Chartier said of the victory.

The third set was more difficult for the Hawks, but Vilsoet was pleased with the way his team spread the ball around. Madison, though, was left looking for answers.

"We are not playing well as a team," said Toby Parker, Madison's coach. "Everybody has to play consistent - we didn't do that tonight."

It won't be long before Harper faces another NJCAA-ranked team. The Hawks travel to Rock Valley College on Sept. 17.