Harper makes quick work of MATC in Region IV quarterfinals

It took less than 60 minutes at the Sports and Wellness center in Palatine on Wednesday for third-seeded Harper to earn a 25-8, 25-11, 25-13 victory over Milwaukee Area Technical College in the Region IV women's volleyball tournament quarterfinals.

The closest the visitors were able to get was a first-set 2-2 tie before the Hawks led the rest of the way.

The outcome was as the Hawks expected against sixth-seeded Milwaukee (5-17), but Harper coach Bob Vilsoet was quick to praise the opponent.

"Milwaukee has gotten better," he said.

The Hawks (34-12) next play second seed Rock Valley College on Saturday. The winner of that matchup will most likely earn a date against Madison College, the top seed, for the Region IV title and a berth in the national tournament to be held in Rochester, Minn.

Sophomore Daniele Sortino (Elk Grove) played a big role in Harper's success against Milwaukee. The middle blocker, who totaled 7 kills and 1 block, said she and her teammates respect every opponent.

"We always play to our best potential," Sortino said.

The Hawks' defense was also sharp, and Harper's key player in that regard, according to Vilsoet, was libero Meghan Chartier (Buffalo Grove).

"Meghan was all over the court," said Vilsoet of the All-America candidate who finished with 24 digs.

Chartier was also key in keeping the MATC attack at bay from the service line, with a pair of aces in a 20-for-23 peformance. Katelyn Sommers (Buffalo Grove) was also a factor with her serve, leading the Hawks with 3 aces on just 8 attempts.

Six-foot sophomore Sarah Berggren (Barrington) played a key role by controlling the net with 3 blocks.