Scouting Lake County girls volleyball

NSC Lake

Lake Zurich

Coach: Matt Aiello (4th year)

2008 record: 33-4

Graduated players: Lydia Bauer, Amber Miehlke, Melissa Miehlke.

Returning players: seniors Audrey Bauer, Jen Grunden, Alex Karigan, Monica Kloep, Brittany Murawski; juniors Lauren Gornik, Alexis Hartman; sophomores Amanda Orchard, Ali Summers

Juniors: Karlissa Skarb, Marissa Wagner; sophomore Dori Darras.

Outlook: Lake Zurich returns eight players from last year's 33-4 team. No wonder coach Matt Aiello is expecting a big year. "We're tall, athletic and experienced," he said. The biggest question coming into the year was who would replace Lydia Bauer at setter. The answer is the duo of junior Alexis Hartman and senior Alex Karigan. Hartman is new to the position but is proving to be a natural. The middle will be a huge strength with senior Audrey Bauer and sophomore Amanda Orchard. "I'm looking forward to Audrey stepping out into her own spotlight," Aiello said. All Orchard did this summer was play for the USA Select Continental Team. Orchard was paired with some of the best sophomores in the country. "I normally sub for middles in the back row, but she's too good to take off the court," Aiello said. Seniors Jen Grunden and Brittany Murawski are formidable threats as outside hitters. "They can put the ball away at any moment," Aiello said. After seeing spot time as a defensive specialist last year, sophomore Ali Summers takes over at libero.

Libertyville:

Coach: Greg Loika

2008 record: 23-13

Graduated players: Meggie Buhrman, Sarah Caren, Jenny Hamlin, Sami Mack, Emma Mach, Anna Pollema, Maka Stewart, Kerstin Taylor.

Returning players: seniors Alanna Connors, Megan Friedman; junior Catie Steffen.

Newcomers: seniors Ashley Beres, Mackenzie Haws, Leah Kruckman, Brittany Schick; juniors Paige Hopper, McKenzie O'Brien, Kaca Savatic; freshmen Kristin Webb, Cindy Zhou.

Outlook: A new era begins at Libertyville as Greg Loika takes over for long-time coach Chris Trzyna. Loika spent the last two seasons as the girls junior varsity coach. "I have some big shoes to fill," he said. "There's a pretty long standing history of excellent volleyball." So far, the girls have embraced their new coach. "They're very much like a bunch of sponges," he said. "Everything I've asked they've been wiling to do. This week will show us a lot, but I'm pretty happy with where we're at." Seniors Alanna Connors and Megan Friedman and junior Catie Steffen are the only returning varsity players. "They'll be huge for us because they've been through this before," Loika said. Two of the most improved players are senior middles Leah Kruckman and Mackenzie Haws. Both girls had older sisters who played for Libertyville. For the first time in anyone's memory, the Wildcats will be starting two freshmen. Kristin Webb will move right in to the libero position, while Cindy Zhou will see some time at setter. The starting setter will be Kaca Savatic. "She's a pure athlete and setting comes pretty naturally to her," Loika said.

Mundelein

Coach: George Dressen Jr. (5th year)

Last year's record: 12-22

Graduated players: Jennifer Davis, Kiersten Horndasch, Emily Peel, Heather Wiener, Jessica Wilson.

Returning players: seniors Megan Barron, Alyssa Fritz, Kailey Hinchman, Brittany Jones, Natasha Navarrete, Michelle Parssinen, Kelsey Sullivan, Gina Withrow.

Newcomers: juniors Clare Camerson, Ariel Dolin, Suzy Hampson, Christine Scott, Emily Tylka; sophomore Brittany Busscher; freshman Ashley Dolin

Outlook: Last year was one of those seasons for Mundelein. The Mustangs were hit hard by injuries and never able to reach their potential. If Mundelein stays healthy, this can be a season to remember for the Mustangs. "We are easily two to three weeks ahead of where we typically are at this point," coach George Dressen Jr. said. Scouting reports from last year will be out of date, especially from behind the service line. "We've gone to a lot of jump floats and jump serves, which is new for Mundelein," Dressen said. Seniors Michelle Parssinen and Kelsey Sullivan are starting for the third consecutive season at middle blocker and setter, respectively. Senior Megan Barron, who was forced to set for most of last season, returns to outside hitter. Senior Brittany Jones will be a different player this year. "She's come out on fire," Dressen said. Junior Ariel Dolin and her younger sister, Ashley Dolin, transferred from the Huntley school district. "They've fit in wonderfully," Dressen said. "It's like they've been with the girls forever."

Stevenson

Coach: Tim Crow (8th year)

2008 record: 28-9

Graduated players: Taylor Berland, Annelise Docel, Michelle Fleishman, Mary Kate Fritzsche, Chelsea Furlan, Brittney Gescheidle, Courtney Levy, Izzy Shaindlin, Maria Skillman, Aubrie Wnek;

Returning players: seniors Amber Hughes, Maggie Lundstrom; junior Jenna Przybyla.

Newcomers: seniors Julie Block, Anastasia Borozenets, Payton Hansen, Colleen Peters, Paige Polzin; juniors Shefali Arora, Carlee Berland, Kierstyn Hansen, Shannon Mullins; sophomores Mackenzie Kurth; freshman Rachel Baader.

Outlook: The Stevenson girls may not have quite as much talent as last year's team that went 8-0 in the NSC Lake Division, but the Patriots will still be plenty formidable. And they have a player to build around for four years in Rachel Baader, a 5-foot-9 outside hitter. "I've never had a freshman on the girls or boys team," coach Tim Crow said. "She's used to playing high-level volleyball. She likes the competition and does better in pressure situations." Sophomore Mackenzie Kurth, a 5-foot-10 outside hitter, will also make a major contribution. "She's a very aggressive player and she thrives on tough competition," Crow said. Senior Amber Hughes, a backup outside hitter last year, will be the starting libero. Maggie Lundstrom and junior Jenna Przybyla will both log time at setter. "We' might take some hits here and there, but it will be exciting to see our progress," Crow said. "We have some athletic girls that can put the ball away."

Warren

Coach: Julie Filippo (6th year)

Graduated players: Lindsey Goad, Emily Mohapp, Sarah Myles, Laura Scheck.

Returning players: seniors Alex Booker, Kerry Eddy, Shelby Myers, Emily Rediger; junior Libby Perrone

Newcomers: senior Stephanie Glogovsky; juniors Nicole Klosterman, Danielle Peterson, Rachel Stemplewski; sophomores Valarie Rapp, Rachel Walz; freshmen Jaime Dickenson, Kendall Farmer, Paige Jerspersen.

Outlook: Warren has at least two players represented from every class. With five sophomores and freshmen on varsity, the Blue Devils have plenty of young talent. In addition to four returning seniors, Warren welcomes senior Stephanie Glogovsky. Glogovsky played last year for Carmel.

NSC Prairie

Antioch

Coach: Glen Heitman (3rd year)

2008 record: 11-28

Graduated players: Martha Arntson, Anne Bruce, Kirstin Crichton, Brittany Hartl, Deidra Hawker, Katrina Holm, Kendall Padgett, Rebecca Ribar, Samantha Sagers, Megan Vladic.

Returning players: seniors Lauren Grant, Erica Lubkeman, Kendall Padgett; junior Savana Bailey.

Newcomers: seniors Meghan Opolka, Megan Petty, Solange Simpson; juniors Sarah Collette, Amber Dalgaard, Sam Dvorak, Lauren Tiffany; sophomores Lindsey Gofron, Brianna Grant, Jessica Ploss.

Outlook: After a down year, look for Antioch to challenge for the Prairie Division title. For the Sequoits, it all beings with senior Lauren Grant. "When Lauren's on, she can hit as well as anybody," coach Glen Heitman said. "She's a great passer and one of our best defenders." Senior Erica Lubkeman will be a key hitter. Sophomore middle blockers Brianna Grant and Jessica Ploss are rising players. The Sequoits have the luxury of two talented setters (Kendall Padgett and Savana Bailey). "They've improved tremendously," Heitman said. The defense will be led by senior Solange Simpson and junior Sam Dvorak. "You can put either one in and not miss a beat," Heitman said.

Grant

Coach: Sue Thompson (13th year)

Graduated players: seniors Rachel Behm, Janine Fiordirosa, C.J. Hill, Jessica Nusbaum, Amber Potts, Sarah Scurto.

Returning players: senior Hannah Couch; juniors Becca McMullin, Rebecca White.

Newcomers: juniors Sarah Berthiaume, Alyssa Black, Nicole Dickson, Allison Heil, Stefanie Cahill, Kelly Kucharski, Lindsey Lhotka, Sophia Trbojevich; sophomores Erin Beskow, Madison DePersio, Scottley Sandnes.

Outlook: Grant will need every player to contribute this season. "We're a pretty athletic group, but we don't have any superstars," coach Sue Thompson said. "We're working on our defensive skills because that and being scrappy is what will keep us in games." The Bulldogs only return one senior, which means a bunch of talented younger players will garner valuable varsity experience. Grant will rely quite a bit on senior Hannah Couch. "She has a really good serve," Thompson said. Thompson is also high on junior Becca McMullin, a 6-foot-2 junior middle blocker. "We've got to find ways to get her the ball," Thompson said. Junior Sophia Trbojevich has impressed at setter. "This is a fun group," Thompson said. "There's no attitude and they buy into the team concept."

Lakes

Coach: Carla Thompson (5th year)

2008 record: 10-22

Graduated players: Hannah Dewitt, Steffanie Fisher, Cristina Iturbe, Allie Rosenzweig.

Returning players: seniors Mandy Fischer, Shanna Hertz, Sarah Toporek; juniors Mary Doupis, Sally Kenney; sophomore Rachel Sieracke.

Newcomers: senior Melissa Lewis; juniors Marina Borrero, Kailey Molloy, Jessie Richter, Ashley Sodt.

Outlook: Middle blocker Mandy Fischer should have a big senior season. Key for Lakes will be to pass well enough that Fisher can be set on a regular basis. "She's just a total player,' coach Carla Thompson said. "We need to get her the ball when she is in the front row because teams won't be able to shut her down. She knows where she is supposed to be, and when she hits she doesn't hesitate to move the ball around." Sophomore Rachel Sieracke is a promising setter. Junior Kailey Molloy can contribute as a setter and a hitter. Senior Melissa Lewis, a state qualifier in the hurdles, is trying volleyball for the first time.

Round Lake

Coach: Amanda Allen (4th year)

2008 record: 12-24

Returning players: seniors Angie Carey, Samantha Hughes, Stephanie Infante, Hayley Ward; junior Emily Beane.

Newcomers: senior Hayley Vaughn; juniors Chanae Brown, Grace Kalume, Sydnee Miller, Krystal Pitts; sophomore: Hannah Green.

Outlook: The Panthers lost a wealth of experience and height to graduation. To overcome that, they will have to rely on defense. "Our focus is entirely different," coach Amanda Allen said. "We'll have to play (great) defense." Leading the defensive effort will be senior libero Stephanie Infante. "She would run through walls to keep a point alive," Allen said. "She's stepping into the role and being a good leader." Senior Hayley Ward is an undersized but smart outside hitter. Senior Hayley Vaughn will debut at setter. "She didn't play as a junior, but she wanted to come back," Allen said. "She's athletic, competitive and willing to put in the extra hours to learn a new position."

Vernon Hills

Coach: Abbie Gutzmer (3rd year)

2008 record: 23-10-1

Graduated players: Ana Christensen, Megan Kubacki, Sarah Milligan, Rachel Ramsey, Jaime Rucks.

Returning players: seniors Amy Choi, Alana Coy, Chole Hough, Amy Larsen, Nora Snyder, Brigid Walsh; juniors Alla Krashevsky, Alisa Welter

Newcomers: juniors Jennifer Camello, Megan Dougherty, Joy Heady, Caitlin Ramsey; sophomores Megan Meline, Julie Pecht.

Outlook: Defense is usually an issue for volleyball teams, particularly at the start of the season. Fortunately for the Cougars, they have senior Amy Choi to pace an excellent all-around defense. "We are an incredibly strong defensive team," coach Abbie Gutzmer said. "There are not a lot of balls hitting the floor. We expect Amy to do a lot and she takes it on her shoulders. We feed off her energy and enthusiasm." Senior Nora Snyder is a hitter to watch. "She has a lot of power and she likes to mix it up," Gutzmer said. "This is her second year on varsity and she's more of a threat." Senior Brigid Walsh is a consistent performer on the right side. Senior Alana Coy will direct Vernon Hills' 5-1 offense. "She has great hands and is very athletic," Gutzmer said. So far, the Cougars are ahead of schedule. "We have to tweak a few things, but I'm excited with where we're at," she said. "Every time the girls step onto the court they're ready to compete."

Wauconda

Coach: Jonathan Grandt

Last year: 29-7

Returning players: seniors Stephanie Olson, Danielle Tallman, Maddie Westman, Michelle Waltenburg; junior Gina Anselmo; sophomore Erinn Hellweg.

Newcomers: juniors Kasey Kruckenburg, Stephaney Olson, Cara Nance; sophomores Ali Morrison, Ava Wilhelm; freshman Megan Tallman.

Outlook: Wauconda accomplished quite a bit last season. The Bulldogs won a school-record 29 matches and went undefeated in Prairie Division play. While the Bulldogs did lose eight seniors, there is enough talent to make another run at the Prairie. "Our team chemistry is awesome," coach Jonathan Grandt said. "Once we start to click, watch out." Seniors Maddie Westman and Stephanie Olson are both making the move from the middle to the outside. "We are looking for Maddie to be the backbone of our offense this year," he said. "Stephanie has the experience and volleyball knowledge we need to help us be successful." Senior Michelle Waltenburg will ably fill the libero role. "This is her year to shine," Grandt said. "Her passing makes our hitters successful." Sophomore Erinn Hellweg moves from the right side to middle blocker. Freshman Megan Tallman, 5-foot-10, has a chance to be a four-year starter at setter. "She has a natural ability to read the defense and place the ball where we can have success," Grandt said.

Fox Valley

Grayslake Central:

Coach: Jason Janczak (4th year)

2008 record: 17-17

Graduated players: Amber Benko, Shannon Curtis, Anna Dlesk, Tory Dohm, Brittany Gibson, Briana Glende, Lauren Novak.

Returning players: seniors Emily Anderson, Lydia Boyle, Brianna Peterson, Stephanie Pimpo.

Juniors: Lucy Peterson, Hannah Smith; sophomore Klaudia Basierak; freshman Marina Treto.

Outlook: OK, so the Rams do face major graduation losses from last year's regional title team. Of course, a mix of talented returnees and newcomers could make this another impressive season. "We know that the road to the regional runs through Antioch," coach Jason Janczak said. "Antioch will be outstanding, but I think all the girls believe we can win another regional. It's a different mix of kids this year with really solid potential." Sophomore Klaudia Basierak can pound the ball and should be a big contributor on the outside. "She has a heavy hand and is a versatile hitter," Janczak said. Freshman Marina Treto will fill the role of defensive specialist. Senior libero Stephanie Pimpo has impressed Janczak with her hustle and energy. Senior Lydia Boyle is back at outside hitter, her natural position. Senior Emily Anderson will set for the second consecutive year.

Grayslake North

Coach: Nikki Kirchway (4th year)

2008 record: 4-32

Graduated players: Kaitlyn Clausner, Areli Lopez, Laura Mendoza, Rosey Vergara, Taylor York.

Returning players: senior Sarah Walker; juniors: Brianna Leon, Lauren Trahan; sophomore Kinsey Siler.

Newcomers: senior Sekaya Harris; juniors Katie Detweiler, Kelsi Leith, Crystal Luna, Raquel Ness, Kaitlyn Woodward; sophomores Kayla Huck, Katie McGrath, Sara Steinhoff; freshman Joanna Guhl.

Outlook: Grayslake North will be a more balanced unit than in recent years. "We have an offense and a defense," coach Nikki Kirchway said. "We can pass, we have really good serving and we can terminate the ball." Senior Sarah Walker will be instrumental in the Knights' success. "She's our all-around player," Kirchway said. "She's a really strong girl, but she can place the ball, too. Her passing has improved tremendously." Junior Brianna Leon and sophomore Kinsey Siler can put up a big block in the middle. "(Walker) and those two are pretty much are keys," she said. The Knights are taller than in recent seasons. "That will help and we have high energy," Kirchway said. "A lot of teams will think we're young, but we're looking to be competitive in every game."

East Suburban Catholic

Carmel

Coach: Bill Szczesniak (4th year)

Graduated players: Kelley Jazdzewski, Sarah Kopfmann, Katie Roy.

Returning players: seniors Sam Salvi, Paige Sivertsen, Sarah Stanton; juniors Sarah Grum, Erin Paterkiewicz, Karrah Toby; sophomore Megan Mowery.

Newcomers: juniors C.C. Federer, Hannah Turner, Eleia Yonke; sophomores Taylor Roby, Jessie Wayland.

Outlook: Carmel is still young and still talented defensively. The defensive stalwarts are Sam Salvi, Paige Sivertsen and Karrah Toby. "All three are great defensive players," coach Bill Szczesniak said. "They run down everything and they're not afraid to hit the floor." Carmel will count on Sarah Stanton for her all-around play and leadership. Junior Hannah Turner should emerge as the Corsairs' strongest hitter. Junior C.C. Federer is much improved as a setter, which will allow sophomore Megan Mowery to split her time between setter and right side. Sophomore Taylor Roby and junior Erin Paterkiewicz will anchor play in the middle.