Women's volleyball: Harper has high hopes for young team

The Harper College women's volleyball program intends to raise the bar.

After graduating six starters from the previous year's team, most coaches would enter the new season concerned.

But in the case of Harper volleyball coach Bob Vilsoet, he instead sees promise for a young, talented squad.

"This year, we deserve higher expectations," he said.

The Hawks, ranked No. 6 in the NJCAA Division III preseason poll, kicked off their season in fine fashion over the weekend, winning all four matches at the South Suburban Invitational in the Wisconsin Dells.

Harper earned its first win against a ranked NJCAA Division II foe on Saturday by defeating eighth-ranked Kirkwood (Iowa) 25-22, 14-25, 16-25, 25-19, 15-7.

On Sunday, the Hawks defeated the No. 2-ranked team in NJCAA Divsion III, Rochester Community and Technical College (Minn.) 25-21, 25-13, 25-14.

The Hawks open North Central Community College Conference play Tuesday with a contest at ninth-ranked Rock Valley College.

"I feel better about this year than most," Vilsoet said.

The foundation of this year's team will be four returning sophomores, projected starters at libero, setter and defensive specialist.

Buffalo Grove product Katelyn Sommers will once again run the Harper offense. Her 1,496 assists led all NJCAA players last season.

"It's going to be fun with her," Vilsoet said. "She should light it up."

Kayla Mayer was second in the NJCAA in digs in 2015. She is undergoing a position change, moving from defensive specialist to libero.

"Kayla is ready to move to libero." Vilsoet said.

Of the 11 new players on this year's roster, 10 are freshman. Half were Daily Hearld all-area selections, including Ariana Chelini.

Vilsoet says the young outside hitter is effective from the service line and is a very strong defensive player.

Joining Chelini on the outside is Hoffman Estates alum Marielle Lugo. She missed her senior year in high school due to a knee injury.

"Her arm is a cannon," Vilsoet said. "She hits as hard as any outside hitter."

Sara Udoni, a 5-foot-10 middle and graduate of Palatine, could play a part in the Hawks' offense. Vilsoet described her as a "very good, strong player."

Hersey grad Gianna Carusiello is also on the club.

"It's nice to get a player from Hersey," Vilsoet said.