Scouting girls volleyball, Northwest

MID-SUBURBAN EASTBuffalo Grove Coach: Matt Priban (fourth year)

Last year's record: 19-16, 7-3

Graduated players: Marie Georgoulis, Teagan Hutchings, Monica Browne, Alicia Kantor, Maddi Morini, Rebecca Katz, Katelyn Sommers

Returning players: Kiarra Akiyoshi (5-8 Jr. libero), Kanella Kalyviaris 5-11 (Jr. MB), Dana Stutzman (5-7, Sr. OH)

Newcomers: Gina Bolis (5-9, Jr. MB), Anna Fasuna (5-7 Sr. S), Marge Monacelli (5-2 Sr. DS), Leslie Salgado (5-4 Sr. DS), Hannah Schuler (5-8 Jr. S), Gabby Sowa (5-8, Sr. RH), Nadia Tarasova (6-1 Jr. OH), Sara Tolvstad (5-8 Sr. RH)

Outlook: Coach Matt Priban is hoping that defense helps lead to victories this season. "We plan on being competitive every time we step on the court," he said. "Our returning players bring back a lot of experience and will help lead this team." All-area setter Marie Georgoulis has graduated after directing the Bison attack the last three years. Akiyoshi, who will play a key role in the Bison backcourt, was special mention all-area last fall. "Although we have many new additions, we believe very strongly in their abilities to contribute and be effective right away," Priban said.

Elk GroveCoach: Stephanie Kezios (sixth year)

Last year's record: 8-24, 0-10

Graduated players: Amber Lindfors, O'Rayn McAvoy, Tayler Merkel, Cheryl Wickstrom, Christina Hendren, Katie Morill

Returning players: Carly Crothers (5-8, Sr. OH), Alex Masnica (5-5 Sr. S), Kylie Ostling (5-8, Sr. RS), Mary Cronin (5-4 Jr. S), Jenny Banak (5-4, Jr. DS)

Newcomers: Christina Mendiola (5-9, Sr. MH), Sarah Bochnik (5-4 Sr. DS), Rachel Lullo (5-3 Sr. DS), Isabel Michniak (5-7 Sr. MH), MacKenzie Vetter (5-9, Sr. OH)

Outlook: As she begins her sixth season, coach Stephanie Kezios will be relying on her team's defense to set the tone. "We are definitely going to be a defensive team this year," said Kezios, who played volleyball at Resurrection High School in Chicago. "Our serve receive is much improved, as is our ability to dig and pick up loose balls." Special mention all-area middle blocker Amber Lindfors, an attack leader for the Grens the past two seasons, graduated. But setters Alex Masnica and Mary Cronin are back to direct the Grens' offense. "We expect them to be able to successfully run our offense," Kezios said. "The defensive play of Jenny Banak and Carly Crothers is also much improved, so we will be dependent upon their skills, as well, in order to have success."

HerseyCoach: Nancy Lill (28th year)

Last year's record: 31-6, 10-0

Graduated players: Courtney Stedman (Carthage), Gabrielle Olhava (New Hampshire), Kaylie Jacobson (Augustana), Kelly Hill, Joslyn Kerman, Kira Busse (Loras), Caity Strozewski

Returning players: Liz Fuerst (5-10, Sr. OH), Dani Havel (5-3 Sr. DS/L), Katie Rozanski (5-11, Sr. MB), Zoe Strozewski (6-1, Jr. MB), Emma Frankiewicz (5-6 So, DS), Mary Clare O'Shea (5-10, Jr. OH), Maggie Reisel (5-4, Jr. S), Sammi Steger (5-10 Jr MB-RH),

Newcomers: Liz Solans (5-6 Jr. DS/OH), Carley Chiodo (5-8 Sr. OH), Amy Morgan (5-8 So. OH), Gianna Carusiello (5-10 Sr. S), Emma Strozewski (5-11 So. S-RH), Alesa Olhava (5-8 Fr. S)

Outlook: The defending Mid-Suburban League champions have been hit hard by graduation but still possess a strong nucleus returning from last year's team. One of those players Liz Fuerst, a four-year varsity starter and one of the top players in the state. At the other outside hitter spot will be Amy Morgan, another solid all-around player who can do it all. Carley Chiodo is also expected to be ready to contribute. The Huskies return two capable middles who started last year - Strozewski and Rozanski. Rozanski missed much of the 2014 season with injuries and is healthy and ready to contribute. Stozewski filled in last year when Rozanski was sidelined and had a very strong season. The primary setter will be Maggie Reisel with Carusiello, Emma Strozewski and Alesa Olhava (sister of 2014 all-area honorary captain Gabri Olhava) all ready for action. On the right side will be Mary Clare O'Shea and Sammi Steger. Defensively, Dani Havel, Liz Solans and Emma Frankiewicz provide depth in the backcourt. "We are a young but talented team that is focused and practicing hard," said Lill, the winningest MSL coach with 867 wins. "We will be tested early with a very tough schedule. Although we were hit hard by graduation we still have our nucleus back and other very talented younger athletes ready to play." Last fall, the entire Hersey program went 60-0 in conference play (division matches and crossovers). Lill likes the team chemistry so far. " We will be challenged as we attempt to defend the East division and conference," she said. "We will improve as the season progresses and have our goals set high for postseason success."

ProspectCoach: Laura Gerber (first year)

Last year's record: 16-21, 5-5

Graduated players: Catherine Sherwood, Sarah Cutaia, Carolyn Sherrick, Rachel Grippo, Maddy Mantych

Returning players: Michelle Haaning (5-10 Sr. S), Brenda Kendziera (5-9 Sr. MH), Mary Mazurek (5-9 Jr. OH), Kaeli Myers (5-8 Jr. OH), Maggie Porwit (5-9 Jr. RS).

Newcomers: Nikki Giammarino (Sr. L), Sammy Withey (Sr. MH), Lilli Fleming (Sr. RS), Natalie Kragt (Sr. S), Kelly Prete (Sr. DS), Clare O'Carroll (Sr. MH), Mercedes Walter (Sr. DS).

Outlook: Former Maine South and Western Illinois setter Laura Gerber takes over the coaching position after Gabrielle Lovin became the new girls basketball coach last spring. "We have a strong group of returning players who are focused and ready to play," Gerber said. Haaning returns to run the offense while Myers (all-area special mention), Mazurek, Porwit and Kendziera all return as attackers. Hanning was an all-area setter as a junior when she led the team with 541 assists and 181 digs. She also served for a team-high 40 aces. "We should be very strong offensively," Gerber said. "One of several goals we have is to compete for the conference championship this season. This has been a great group to coach so far and I'm looking forward to a successful season."

Rolling MeadowsCoach: Joe Disilvio (fourth year)

Last year's record: 9-28, 2-8

Graduated seniors: Nora Rasche, Laura Kallal, Sarah Deitelhoff

Returning players: Hannah Mickey (6-0 Sr. MB), Megan King (5-6 Sr, S), Megan Mich (5-9 Sr. S), Jenny Srnak (5-11 Sr. MB), Gabby Paige (6-0 Sr. RS), Maddie Sellergren (5-9, Jr, OH), Paige Connor (5-5 Jr. DS), Caroline Barczak (5-4 Sr, S.) Megan Slowik (5-7 Sr. OH), Madeline Rebsamen (5-7 Jr. S), Katie Zanocco (6-0 M, Jr.).

Outlook: As he begins his fourth season directing the Mustangs program, coach Joe Disilvio will be looking for his club to make strides individually and as a team. All but three players return from last year's squad. "That along with some great improvements in the offseason will make for an exciting season," Disilvio said. "Our goal is to improve our number of wins in conference and overall." Mickey returns after an all-area season as a junior. She led the Mustangs in kills (157), hitting efficiency (.269), serving percentage (93,5) and blocks (63). Sellergren also made a big impact as a sophomore, earning special mention all-area. "I will look for our returning players who now have a year or more of varsity experience under their belts to help us succeed," DiSilvio said.

WheelingCoach: Jason Kopkowski (eighth year)

Last year's record: 17-20, 6-4

Graduated players: Lani Greenburg, Domenica Montesinos, Deanna Kuzmanic, Sabrina Semeria, Ashley Talken, Alexis Laureano, Jaron Urban, Imani Evans, Kristen Bogacz, and Sarah Fruscione

Returning players: Timber Terrell (5-11, Jr. OH), Michaela Vasey (5-8, Sr., OH)

Newcomers: Shannon Kennedy (5-6, Jr. OH/M), Jessica Janowski (5-6 So, S), Annalisa Baranowski (5-8, Sr. S), Rochelle Laude (5-9 Jr. MB), Hala Fakhoury (5-5, Jr. DS), Elli Parisi (5-5, Sr., DS), Melissa Claver (5-10, Jr. OH), Jessica Talken (5-6, So., OH), Jazmyn Veloso (5-4, Fr. DS), Coco Yoshino (5-4, Jr. DS), Amanda Prause (5-8, Jr. MB), Remy Jankowski (5-7, So. OH)

Outlook: When it comes to team strengths, three came to mind for veteran coach Jason Kopkowski. "They include a strong defensive mindset, ball control and powerful hitters," said the former Rolling Meadows volleyball player. One of those powerful hitters is Timber Terrell, who had a breakout year as a sophomore. Terrell put down a team-high 260 kills along with more than 160 digs. A major graduation loss was setter Sabrina Semeria, a special mention all-area selection who directed the Wildcats' offense last fall. "Being a younger team with a sophomore setter, we hope to get through any 'growing pains' as quickly as possible," Kopkowski said. "Timber will lead our team in offense. She will also contribute to the overall leadership of this team along with our three seniors (Michaela Vasey, Annalisa Baranowski, and Elli Parisi). This is a great group of girls who are willing to work hard, work together, and play with a strong desire and purpose. We look forward to this season and the success that will be earned throughout it."

MID-SUBURBAN WESTBarringtonCoach: Michelle Jakubowski (second year)

Last year's record: 9-27, 3-7

Graduated players: Annie Rotcek

Returning players: Edy Merkle (5-7, Sr, DS), Olivia Hagan (5-5 Sr. DS/L), Katie Clement (6-0 Sr, OH), Megan Talbot (6-2 Sr. MH), Ana Zawisza (5-7 Jr. S), Gabby Morris (5-8 Jr. OH), Claudia Locke (5-8 Sr OH), Veronica Rizzuto (6-0 Sr. MH)

Newcomers: Peyton Tilly 6-2 Fr. OH) Andi Capel (5-10 So. OH), Cecilia Stack (6-1, Jr. MH)

Outlook: As she begins her second season directing Barrington and 18th overall as a head volleyball coach, Michelle Jakubowski said the Fillies are looking forward to the fall season after a very productive summer. Leading the offense will be Katie Clement, Megan Talbot and Gabby Morris. Talbot was an all-area middle hitter last season, converting a team-high 46 blocks while also serving 43 aces and the second-most kills on the team. Ana Zawisza will take over the setting duties. Returning to the backcourt is 2014 all-area selection Olivia Hagan, a talented libero who led the Fillies with more than 300 digs as a junior. She also served 41 aces. "Defensively we are very deep," Jakubowski added. "And we will have some new faces on the pin with Andi Capel and Peyton Tilly."

ConantCoach: Drewann Pancratz (second year)

Last year's record: 16-21, 3-7

Graduated players: Elisa Ambrose, Victoria Dereszkiewicz, Deedee Durr, Danielle Engelbreit, Joniece Jones, Hannah Lee, Katie Lomas, Dhara Patel, Alissa Wachal

Returning players: Rachel Delanois (5-10, Sr. OH), Jorie Wachal (5-9 Jr. MH)

Newcomers: Kristina Loznjakovic (So, S), Kelly Czerpak (Jr. S/RS), Karli Heneghan (Sr. OP,) Marisa Dizonno (Sr. DS), Ester Cho (Sr. L), Ayla Kljako (Jr. MH), Aly Peacock (Jr. OH), Lauren Perri (Sr. OH)

Outlook: Former Schaumburg all-area honorary captain Drewann Pancratz, a standout setter who went on to star at Carthage College, is set to begin her second season as the Cougars coach after serving as the Leyden girls basketball coach. "We are extremely excited for this up and coming season," said Pancratz, who graduated nine seniors, including all-area setter Elisa Ambrose (431 assists). "We have a completely new makeup of our varsity team with only two returners and the girls are working extremely hard to continue to improve every day." Rachel Delanois and basketball standout Jorie Wachal are the two returning players. "They will provide a strong offensive force at the net," Pancratz said. "Ester Cho (senior libero) will be taking over the defense."

FremdCoach: Curt Pinley (18th year)

Last season's record: 26-9, 8-2

Graduated players: Lane Hindenburg, Carly Roberts, Aubrey Stegich, Jackie Mursuli, Jenna Schneider, Olivia Bergles, Alexandria Pagones, Hope Schroeder, Sarah Roberts, Rachel Wilhelm, Maisie Koo, Anne Bielisnki.

Returning players: Ysabel Lee (Jr, MB), MacKenzie Bednarek (Sr. MB)

Newcomers: Holly Straup (Sr. S), Natalie Freund (Sr. S), Jenny Miller (Jr. OH), Rebecca Uhrich (Jr. OH), Bailey Hooker (Jr. OH), Carolina Sas (Jr. DS), Becca Stapleton (Sr. MB), Lauren Carver (Sr, OH), Sara Ganas (Jr. OH), Abby Canace (Sr. DS), Alex Tangney (Sr. MB),

Outlook: With the graduation of three all-area players, coach Curt Pinley's 18th team at Fremd is young and possesses little varsity experience. "That being said, this is one of the most athletic teams I have coached in a long time," said Pinley, who has won 356 matches as the Vikes girls coach and has nearly 800 combined with his boys teams. "We hope to take advantage of our athletic abilities and work on consistency." Hindenburg graduated after becoming only the second four-year starter in Pinley's 18 years as the Fremd coach. She led Fremd with 316 kills last fall and had 768 for her career. Also all-area last season were Aubrey Stegich (455 digs and 790 for her career) and Carly Roberts (more than 850 assists in her career and 572 last season). "Even though we have very limited varsity experience and return no all-conference players, I want them to compete," Pinley said. "I see us a little like the Cubs this season. We are young, athletic, have some talent in key positions." Pinley thinks the challenge will be to see how quickly his players become battle-ready. "I am very excited about the possibilities," he said. " If we can be in contention for the MSL West title early in the season, I think that will keep us focused on bigger goals at the end of the season."

Hoffman EstatesCoach: Dan Hutton (ninth year)

Last year: 3-31, 1-9

Graduated players: Annie NGO, Kaitlyn Imburgia, Tori Tompkins, Sarah Scott, Kelsey Warford, Thalia Espinoza

Returning players: Francesca Van (5-3 Sr. DS), Lauren Schrader (5-6 Sr. S), Jennie Nailor (5'9, Sr. OH), Krista Lynch (5-8 Sr. OH),

Newcomers: Anca Pintiliuc (5-8 Sr. MB), Rebecca Salerno (5-3, Sr. OH), Kayla Major (5-8, Sr, S), Michelle Avila (5-4 Sr. OH), Veronica Cardella (5-2 SR. DS), Riya Patel (5-5 Sr. OH), Hanna Saurbier (5-10 Jr. MB), Natalie Pethes (5-5 Jr. S)

Outlook: Hutton, a former Hoffman Estates volleyball player, begins his ninth season at his alma mater with senior-dominated team. "We have a bunch of seniors who have dedicated the last three years working hard trying to earn a starting varsity position," Hutton said. "The girls describe themselves as family as most of them have been on the same team for the past three years." The Hawks are looking to improve on last year's record. "They also want to continue to give 100 percent in everything they do on and off the court."

PalatineCoach: Dan Gavin (ninth year)

Last year's record: 23-14, 7-3

Graduated players: Jessica Lundell, Meg Angelaccio, Maria Howell, Nora Walsh, Rachael Erdmann, Alaia Mikkelsen

Returning players: Heather Holz (Sr. MB), Alexis Serna (Sr. DS), Alyssa Kronberg (Jr. L), Sydney Christiansen (Jr. S), Claire Chaplinsky (Jr. OH), Ally Foltman (Jr. DS)

Newcomers: Senior MB Sarah Udoni, (Sr. MB) Lexi Heuertz (Sr. S), Meh McGarvey (Sr. MB-OPP), Krista Anderson (Sr. OH), Brooke Bauer (Jr. OH)

Outlook: The Pirates return five starters, including Alexis Serna and all -area Heather Holz, who return for their third varsity seasons. Holz led the team with 215 kills from 412 attacks last fall as a junior. Holz also made her presence felt in the middle with a team-high 48 blocks and she also fired 28 aces. "So far, this group has bought into working hard as well as being coachable and team-centered," said Gavin, who led the Pirates to the 2012 MSL West crown. "We understand that if we focus on the process, the results will take care of themselves." The Pirates improved last season and Gavin wants to see that extend into this fall. "We play a tough nonconference schedule and the MSL is always competitive," he said. "So we are looking forward to the challenges that lie in front of us."

SchaumburgCoach: Jeanette Pancratz (27th year)

Last year's record: 25-14, 9-1

Graduated players: Oyinkan Akinola, Jada Blackwell, Hannah Moore, Sam Krug

Returning players: Katherine Coombs (5-11 Sr. MB), Jessica Hartzman (5-6 Sr. S), Lauren LaVigne (5-3 Sr. L), Abbie Rahn (5-11 Sr. OH), Lexi Ross (5-5 Sr. MB-OH), Mallory Gerber (5-11 Jr. OH)

Newcomers: Christina Candotti (5-8 Sr. S), Micaela Encarnacion (5-6 Jr. OH), Jordyn Harberts (5-9 Jr. S), Julia Spitelli (5-11, Jr. MB), Gabrielle Paelmo (5-2, So. L), Morgan Sterrett (5-10, So. OH).

Outlook: The Saxons graduate three all-area players from their 2015 MSL West championship team - Akinola, Blackwell and Moore. Akinola, a Fairfield recruit, collected more than 580 kills in her career. Blackwell's three-year varsity career saw her collect 1,519 assists and 487 digs. Moore, a three-year varsity libero, had more than 630 digs in her career. ."We are working to fill the gaps created by our graduated seniors," The returning Saxons have tasted and witnessed success. One of them is Abbie Rahn, who was a top attacker last fall for the Saxons until a hand injury sidelined her late in the season. "We are hungry to progress and continue to pursue success," said veteran coach Jeanette Pancratz, who also was the head coach for nine years at Resurrection. Her career record is 787-426 (579-392 at Schaumburg). "We have the players to do this. There are several teams in the MSL that have multiple players with significant varsity experience, therefore, we have to remain focused on our vision and not be satisfied. Our vision is to compete in every match and remain true to our covenant."

NORTHEASTERN ATHLETICChristian Liberty Coach: Natalie Salsgiver

Last year's record: 24-23, 5-4

Graduated players: Karima Guillen, Ashley Houdek

Returning players: Cassie Swiderek (5-9, Sr. MB), Maddie Bennett (5-4, Sr. DS), Jasmine Marsh (5-11, Jr. OH), Angie Nichols (5-8 Jr. MB), Lexi Lee (5-8 Jr. OH), Eve Rho (5-2, Jr. L), Chelsea Gonzales (5-5 So. S)

Newcomers: Ashley Thomas (5-4 Sr. RS, DS), Emma DeRidder (5-8 Jr. OH), Sophie Beal (5-8 Jr. RS), Isabelle Silva (5-6 Jr. S), Emily Naubert (5-11 Fr. OH)

Outlook: Coach Natalie Salsgiver believes her team's hitting, serving and digging should be consistent. "The girls played together for a year," she said. "It takes all six on the court but Cassie Swiderek is our glue." Also Salsgiver expects freshman Emily Naubert to make an immediate impact. "She will be an all-around strong player," Salsgiver said. "Lexi Lee and Angie Nichols will also be strong with their all-around play. We want to improve our serve receive and place higher in our conference this season.

EAST SUBURBAN CATHOLICSt. ViatorCoach: Charlie Curtin (ninth year)

Last year's record: 22-15

Graduated players: Kaitlin O'Brien, Grace Fedus, Kasia Sosin

Returning players: Ellie Meyer (5-6 Sr. L), Michaela Mueller (5-5 So. S), Audrey Nuelle (5-10 Sr. RS), Gabi Thomas (5-10 Sr. MB), Alyssa Forbes (5-10 Sr. OH), Emily Hayes (5-10 Sr. MB), Danielle Laterza (5-8 Sr. OH), Sam Anderson (5-7 Sr. RS)

Newcomers: Karina Toledo (5-2 Jr. DS), Sarah Niesman (5-3 Jr. DS), Colleen Williams (5-6 Jr. S), Claire Williams (5-7 Jr. RS), Holly Westerkamp (5-5 Jr. S), Kendall Claffey (5-7 So. OH), Catherine Hickey (5-10 So. OH), Katie Kerrigan (6-1 Jr. MB)

Outlook: As former Hersey volleyball player Charlie Curtin begins his ninth season directing the Lions program, he welcomes back a lot of players with varsity experience. One of those is all-area libero Ellie Meyer, who collected a school record 538 digs as a junior. She also led the Lions with 41 aces and 431 serve receives while also handing out 42 assists. "Ellie Meyer is a game-changing defensive player," Curtin said. "She reads the game very well and is a top notch player." Returning middle blocker Gabi Thomas was an all-area special mention selection as a junior. "Our senior leadership has been a huge asset into the development of our underclassmen," Curtin said. "If we stay healthy we can make a serious run in the state playoffs."

WEST SUBURBAN GOLDLeydenCoach: Danielle Kowalkowski (fifth year)

Last year's record: (overall 15-18, conference 3-3)

Graduated players: Camille Lazzatotto, Edith Garcia

Returning players: Rebecca Johnson (5-3 Sr. DS), Sarah Steininger (5-7, Sr. OH), Gianna Grande (5-8 Sr. RH), Elizabeth Skylakos (5-5 Sr. OH), Emily Steininger (5-10 Sr. OH), Natalie Payne (5-10 Jr. MB), Autumn McGee (5-8, Jr. S), Karina Sanchez (5-10 Sr. MB)

Newcomers: Mickayla Radomski (5-3 Jr. DS), Kamila Zieba (5-3 Jr. L), Patrycja Strzeminska (5-8 Jr. OH), Jennifer Parker 5-8 Jr. MB), Syuzanna Zelizna (5-8 Jr. RH/MH)

Outlook: Coach Danielle Kowalkowski has very high expectations for her fifth team at Leyden. "We have a strong core returning this year with a lot more club ball experience than years past," she said. Among the goals for the Eagles are to finish with at least 20 wins, place in the top two of their conference, finishing in the top two of each of their invites and to win a regional.

CENTRAL SUBURBAN NORTHMaine WestCoach: Mike Cott (first year)

Graduated players: Alyssa Suriano, Alyssa Pegoraro, Andrea Maldonado

Returning players: Allison Grzebien (6-2 Sr. OH), Jordan Hart (5-11, Sr. RS), Carly Hart (5-4 Sr. L), Hannah Kuhn (5-5 Sr. S), Bridget Donovan (5-11 Jr. MB), Jessica Riedl (6-1 So. MB)

Newcomers: Lee Harty (5-9 Jr. OH), Brenna Skinner (5-8 Jr. RS), Sophia Saldana (5-4 So. L), Christy Kolosvary (5-6 So. S), Grace Feldkamp (5-7 Jr. OH), Ellie McCabe (5-9 Jr. OH), Julia Korte (5-10 Jr. MB)

Outlook: It's a new era for Maine West girls volleyball as veteran volleyball coach Mike Cott takes over the program. Cott begins his 12th year of coaching on the varsity volleyball level in the Central Suburban North. For the past 11 years he has coached at Niles North, four years as an assistant and the last seven as the head coach. He was a part of 146 wins, including three regional and one sectional championship. The Vikings also had a 30-win season when Cott was part of the program. Cott's first Maine West team features some talented multi-sport athletes and the power-hitting Grzebien, who was an all-area special mention selection as a junior. "Our goals are to develop a competitive mindset and complete every play," Cott said. "Also we want to maximize our abilities and become as good as we can possibly be. We want to set the tone and foundation for sustained success of the Maine West volleyball program."