Girls volleyball: Scouting DuPage County and Fox Valley
Addison Trail Blazers
Coach: Katie Inzinga (4th season)
Last season’s record: 12-23, 3-3 West Suburban Gold
Top returners: Riannah Varghese, 5-4, sr., S, Itzel Gamboa, 5-3, sr., DS, Giuliana Gallo, 5-10, soph., OH ,Francesca Rohlfing, 6-0, soph., MB
Worth noting: Varghese recorded 406 assists and 23 aces on her way to all-WSC Gold honors last season. Gamboa had 249 digs, 27 aces and passed at a 2.03 clip on a 3.0 scale. Gallo had 163 kills and 26 aces, while Rohlfing had 20 blocks. Communication, serving, a crafty and smart approach on offense and relentless ball pursuit on defense will be strengths, Inzinga noted. She added Gamboa, Gallo and Rohlfing have been working hard to increase foot and arm-swing speed, as well as build consistency with defense. “As returning players, they bring a maturity and experience to the game and mesh well together,” Inzinga said.
Aurora Christian Eagles
Coach: Mayra Johnson
2023 record: 20-10-2, 4-3 Metro Suburban Blue
Top athletes: Madalynn Johnson, OH/RS/DS, sr; Hope Wagner, OH/RS, jr.; Breanna Hard, S, jr.; Ashlyn Aseltine, L, jr.
Worth noting: The Eagles eclipsed the 20-win mark for the first time since 2018 last season, and hope to go even further in their fourth season under Johnson.
Wagner, who led the team in kills with 269 and serving aces with 62, and Johnson, who led the team with 164 digs and added 163 kills and 41 aces, will continue to lead the front line, with Johnson entering her fourth year on varsity. They’ll be paired alongside Hard, who broke out her sophomore season with 62 aces and 434 assists.
With Aseltine expected to lead the backcourt and freshman Gabriella Cotto taking on the role of main blocker for graduate Jada Haymon, Johnson is hoping this’ll be the year where the Eagles take home a regional championship after falling just short in each of the past two seasons.
“A goal for Aurora Christian this year is to make it once again to the regional championship game and take it this time,” Johnson said. “Four of the returning key players have played now for two years in a row with each other and have great chemistry as teammates. ACS has key players in all positions, and we are expecting an electric and fun season.”
Bartlett Hawks
Coach: Robert Schwantz
Last season’s record: 20-14, 6-3 in conference (3rd place)
Top returners: Martyna Sowiak, sr., MH; Ashlyn Lomax, sr., OH; Sarah Savoia Free, sr., S; Sam Buss, jr,. OH; Sydney Johnson, sr., L.
Top newcomers: Neda Bazys, jr., RS; Elsie Nwabuego, sr., MH
Worth noting: Schwantz notes he has a veteran team this season with no sophomores or freshmen. Sowiak, Buss and Johnson are hoping to play college volleyball. Schwantz said the team's goal remains the same – winning the school's first regional title – and also a conference championship. "With the new conference alignment, we feel we have a very good chance to make it to the Upstate Eight Conference championship match," Schwantz said.
Batavia Bulldogs
Coach: McKenna Kelsay
2023 record: 12-25, 2-5 DuKane
Top players: Teagan Rokos, L, sr.; McKenna Bremner, S, sr.; Hallie Crane, OH hitter, sr.; Morgan Raiser, S, so.; Delaney Wik, DS, so.
Worth noting: After losing all but two players heading into 2023, the Bulldogs return a strong core from a season ago after only graduating four seniors and look to finish with a winning record for the first time since 2017.
Returning in the backcourt is Rokos, who led Batavia with 315 digs, and Wik, third on the team with 123, who also led the team in aces with 26. At the net, Bremner returns as a dual-threat after leading the team in assists (211) and kills (210) last season.
And with Raiser proving to be a solid setter in her freshman season, it wouldn’t be surprising to see the senior see more chances at the net this year.
“Last year we were super young, so the returners now have more experience under their belt and have shown some really great strides,” Kelsay said. “I can’t wait to see them come together and start to get into the groove that we know they can play with.”
Benet Academy Redwings
Coach: Brad Baker (16th season)
Last year’s record: 39-3 (Class 4A runner-up)
Top returners: Gabby Stasys, 6-1, sr., MB, Audrey Asleson, 6-0, sr., S, Aniya Warren, 5-9, sr., Libero, Morgan Asleson, 5-8, sr., Libero, Sophia Pursley, 6-0, sr., OH, Marikate Ritterbusch, 5-8, sr., Libero, Ellie Williams, 5-10, sr., S, Taylor Kunka, 5-5, sr., Libero, Ava Leedebuhr, 5-8, sr., Libero, Kierra O’Donnell, 6-1, sr., OH, Brooklyn Brass, 5-10, jr., OH, Ellie Stiernagle, 6-1, jr., S, Sophia Chinetti, 6-0, jr., OH, Lynney Tarnow, 6-5, jr., MB, Molly Welge, 6-2, jr., MB, Grace Jermak, 5-10, jr., OH, Abby Lee, 5-6, jr., Libero
Worth noting: The cream of the crop certainly in DuPage County, likely the Chicagoland area, a November Normal suspect and surely worthy of national following. Baker (594-67) has 11 Division I commits on the roster — eleven — in Stasys (Yale), Audrey Asleson (Colorado), Warren (Indiana), Morgan Asleson (Dayton), Pursley (Army), O’Donnell (Southern Miss), Brass (Maryland), Stiernagle (Northwestern), Chinetti (Rhode Island), Tarnow (Wisconsin) and Welge (Marquette). Warren played on the U19 national team this summer and is in the conversation as one of the top liberos in the country, while Tarnow is one of the Class of 2026’s top recruits and is committed to coach Kelly Sheffield’s University of Wisconsin program. Benet has 4 state titles, 4 runner-up and 1 third-place finish since 2008 (finishing second in 2022 and 2023 and earning state trophies in four of the last five seasons).
Burlington Central Rockets
Coach: Julia Smagacz (third season)
Last season: 20-16, 7-11 FVC (tied for seventh)
Top returners: Leah Freesemann, sr., OH; Brianna Gritzman, sr., L; Haidyn Schatz, jr., OH; Julia Johnson, jr., OPP; Emily Maramba, sr., OPP; Peyton Strout, jr., MB; Ainsley Wilson, so., MB; Sarah Jack, sr., S; Tea Cetina, sr., S; Tiernan Naus, so., S
Key newcomers: Leah Bellak, jr., OH; Kassidy Barrett, sr., OH
Worth noting: The Rockets last year came up just short of their first regional title since 2014, falling to Sycamore 14-24, 25-15, 25-18 in the Class 3A Burlington Central Regional final. … Gritzman was an All-FVC selection with an FVC-leading 426 digs. She added 44 aces and 82 assists. … Freesemann is committed to Campbell University. … The Rockets return all three of their setters in Jack, Cetina and Tiernan Naus. … Central won the Richmond-Burton Tournament and Woodstock North Tournament Silver Bracket. … “We are optimistic for this season, with a roster full of veterans and returners,” Smagacz said. “We have effective weapons at all three hitting positions and an incredibly reliable defense. We are looking to improve upon last year’s conference and postseason finishes.”
Cary-Grove Trojans
Coach: Patty Langanis (30th season)
Last season: 4-31, 2-16 FVC (10th)
Top returners: Addison DeKett, sr., S-RS; Lucy Wittenberg, jr., OH; Abby Vongsiri, sr., OH
Key newcomers: Emily Figas, sr., OH; Addison Kessler, jr., MB; Audrey Neuses, jr., RS
Worth noting: The Trojans will look to bounce back after a 10th-place finish in the FVC. The team’s two conference wins were against Burlington Central and Crystal Lake South. … Langanis enters her 30th year at C-G with a 736-325 record. … The Trojans last won a regional title in 2019. … The team’s lone All-FVC selection last year (Morgan Haslow) graduated. … “I expect this team to work incredibly hard to get better every week,” Langanis said. “They are a very committed group and they are dedicated to the culture of Cary-Grove volleyball. I’m very excited to have a group that wants to fight and work to start the long and difficult climb back to the top of the FVC.”
Crystal Lake South Gators
Coach: Annie Moore (third season)
Last season: 23-14, 11-7 FVC (tied for third)
Top returners: Morgan Johnson, sr., OH; Olivia Apt, sr., S; Kendall Brandt, sr., OH; Maddy Cook, jr. DS; Laken LePage, jr., DS; Bobbi Wire, so., OH; Emma Feinberg, so., DS
Key newcomers: Gabi Hindley, sr., RS/S; Joanna Kruzolek, so., MB; Ellesse Sain, sr., MB; Anna Hougas, jr., OH; Layla Addison, so., DS; Peyton Ziegler, so., RS/S
Worth noting: South lost to Woodstock 25-14, 26-24 in the Class 3A Rockford Boylan regional final. South has reached 20 wins in four straight seasons. … The Gators will have to replace the production of outside hitter Gabby Wire, one of the top FVC players over the last few seasons. She led all FVC players with 366 kills, along with 64 aces and 274 digs. … Johnson earned All-FVC with 219 kills, 65 aces and 254 digs and is approaching 500 career kills … Bobbi Wire made an immediate impact as a freshman with 131 kills, 41 aces and 282 digs. … Apt is approaching 500 assists in her career. … “I’m super excited to see our energy and effort turn into growth and victories,” Moore said. “Our youth brings a fresh and dynamic energy that fuels our potential. With big goals and tons of passion, I know we’ll tackle every challenge and make this season a successful one.”
Downers Grove North Trojans
Coach: Mark Wasik
Last season’s record: 22-15, 3-3 in West Suburban Silver (tied for 3rd)
Top returners: Kelley Crowley, jr. OH; Jenny Buehler, sr. OH; Abby Gross, sr. L; Nora Benjamins, jr. MB; Alyssa Walters, sr. S
Key newcomers: Ellery Cabaj, fr. S; Rylie Marshall, so. RS; Nicole Liu, so. OH
Worth noting: The Trojans feature five third-year or second-year varsity players, including 5-10 all-conference Crowley (238 kills, 230 digs, 32 aces last season). Buehler (184 kills), Gross (395 digs), Benjamins (124 kills. 35 blocks) and Walters (250 assists) also were among stat leaders. “We will rely on their leadership particularly as we will also need to count on young talent,” Wasik responded. Regional finalists the past two seasons, the 2023 Trojans rejoined the 20-win club and showed potential by winning the Kaneland Invite and reaching the Silver finals at the McAuley Challenge all while playing a challenging schedule.
Downers Grove South
Coach: Madisen Babich
Last season’s record: 17-19 overall; 4-2 in West Suburban Gold (3rd)
Top returners: Alex Barcenas, sr. S; Jayda Dixon, jr. P; Sylvia Masiulionis, sr. P; Keegan O’Keefe, jr. L
Key newcomer: Jen Curran, so. MH
Worth noting: In Babich’s fourth season, the rebuilding Mustangs are poised for their first winning season and perhaps first regional title since 2019. “I want to keep focusing on changing the culture of the program and get back to our roots,” Babich responded. On varsity since freshman year, setter Barcenas surpassed 1,000 career assists last season en route to being named All-WSC Gold.
Dundee-Crown Chargers
Coach: Jason LeBlanc (first season)
Last season: 16-20, 5-13 FVC (ninth)
Top returners: Coley DiSilvio, sr., MB; Allison Mathesius, sr., MB; Riley Jedras, sr., OH; Maura Minogue, jr., L
Key newcomers: Nina Marcanti, so., L-DS; Victoria Brents, fr., S-RS; Erin Bruce, fr., OH
Worth noting: LeBlanc takes over for Alexis Clayton, who led the Chargers for one season. LeBlanc graduated from D-C and coached the past two years at Marengo and previously was an assistant at Genoa-Kingston and at Crystal Lake Central. … D-C lost to Huntley 25-12, 25-13 in a Class 4A Rockford East regional final. D-C’s last regional title was in 2010. … Outside hitter Audrey Prusko and setter Courtney Komperda, both of D-C’s All-FVC selections, graduated. … “Dundee-Crown has a strong senior class that will be leaders on and off the court, plus we have a great group of talented incoming players,” LeBlanc said. “A real good mix that I believe will make us a team to watch. Personally, I’m excited to be coaching in the Fox Valley Conference again. It’s very competitive with a lot of great coaches and talented athletes.”
Elgin Maroons
Coach: Kaylee Dries
Last sason’s record: 5-28
Top returners: Mahitha Ratakonda, sr., MH; Olivia Pennington, jr., OH; Brielle Boehm, so., S;
Top newcomers: Fiona Villaluz, so., L; Aylin Montes, so., L. Kelly Taruc, sr.
Worth noting: Dries is another new coach who is excited for the season and her newcomers, which include captains Ratakonda and Pennington.... Taruc has impressed Dries with her natural skill..... "So far we have been working really hard to get to know each other and build a strong team foundation," Dries said.
Geneva Vikings
Coach: Lauren Kosecki
2023 record: 24-13, 5-2 DuKane
Top players: Sam Vanda, RS, sr.; Fiona Turnbull, MH, sr.; Lillian Hallahan, OH, sr.; Annabel Stevenson, OH, sr.; Bridget Feichter, S, sr.; Sophia Broderick, L, sr.
Worth noting: After recording their best full season under Kosecki since they made it to supersectionals back in 2016, the Vikings return a good majority of their key role players in an attempt to win their first regional title in eight years.
Geneva’s main strength will come from their frontcourt, even after graduating Charlotte Potvin. Vanda, first on the team with 214 kills, Hallahan, third with 177 and Turnbull, fourth with 159 will lead the attack, while Feichter sets the pace after recording 550 assists last year.
Broderick will be expected to step in and lead the defense at libero after Reilly Day graduated.
“We are returning several key players and adding competitive new ones,” Kosecki said. “This is a fun group to coach, and I am looking forward to seeing what they accomplish this year.”
Glenbard East Rams
Coach: Bradley Cardott (4th season)
Last season’s record: 21-16, 6-3 UEC
Top returners: Grace Johnson, 5-8, sr., OH, Belle McDermott, 6-0, soph., OH, Veronica Witt, 5-10, sr., MB, Harmonee Hallman, 6-1, sr., MB
Key newcomers: Natalie Slusher, 5-9, jr., S, Jess Larson, 5-5, soph., Libero-DS, Megan Pham, 5-7, soph., RS, Laila Hoffmann, 5-6, soph., OH
Worth noting: Johnson was an all-UEC honorable mention selection (156 kills, 135 digs, 41 aces), while McDermott posted 108 kills and 73 digs in 2023. “We will be young with 4 sophomores at the varsity level and we should have a strong defensive team,” Cardott said. Johnson, a 6-rotation player, will be a go-to hitter, Cardott, said, and there are high hopes for McDermott, who stepped up last year as a freshman due to an injury situation. Cardott also is looking for big things from Hallman as an attacker and blocker at the net, while Witt brings balance and an explosive arm swing in the middle, along with high energy and high character as a floor leader. Cardott said Glenbard South and West Chicago are top contenders in the revamped UEC East. The league that has gone to two divisions with the additions of Elmwood Park, Ridgewood and Riverside-Brookfield, previous orphans from the defunct Metro Suburban.
Glenbard South Raiders
Coach: Chad Grant (14th season)
Last season’s record: 18-21, 8-1 (Upstate Eight runner-up)
Top returners: Brooklynn Moore, 5-11, sr., MB, Mirabelle Hines, 5-8, sr., S, Nel Adamczyk, 5-6, jr., Libero, Molly Purse, 6-0, jr., MB, Emma Full, 5-7, soph., OH, Alyna Krabec, 5-3, soph., DS
Key newcomers: Callie Hardtke, 5-9, jr., OH
Worth noting: The Raiders, who reached a 3A sectional title match last year, have 11 players back, including the likes of 2-time all-UEC picks in Moore (291 kills, 50 blocks) and Hines (550 assists, 215 digs, 66 kills, 43 aces). Adamczyk had 289 digs and 54 aces in an all-UEC season, while Full put up 113 kills and 110 digs and Krabec 133 digs and 58 aces as ninth graders. Purse contributed 40 kills and 44 blocks. “It’s kind of surreal where we are today vs. a year ago,” Grant noted. “We serve well and will be much improved offensively. It helps that we have one of the most powerful middle attackers in the state (Moore).” Serve receive, Grant said, will be the wild card. South is part of the new-look UEC East with Elmwood Park, Fenton, Glenbard East, Ridgewood, R-B and West Chicago. Grant said East and West Chicago are contenders in the East.
Glenbard West Hilltoppers
Coach: Dan Scott
Last season’s record: 35-4 overall; 6-0 in West Suburban Silver (champions)
Top returners: Cara Herbert, so. S; Kate Harvey, jr. DS; Kayla Street, jr. M; Gabby Orozco, sr. OH, Emily Overtoom, sr. OPP; Mariia Iurchenko, sr. DS; Jamie Ham, sr. DS
Key newcomers: Ella Rowe, so. OH; Farryn Burridge, so. M; Grace Mullin, jr. OH; Clarke Wallin, jr. M; Kate Gusanders, jr. DS; Francie McGann, jr. M
Worth noting: The Hilltoppers graduated 11 seniors from a veteran group that secured back-to-back Silver titles and a 10th regional title in the past 12 postseasons. Standout setter Herbert and fellow returning starters Harvey and Street were important to that success, and this year’s seniors are poised to contribute significantly. As evidenced by 20-win seasons 16 of the past 17 full seasons, the Hilltoppers always find ways to reach full potential. “We are a young but talented group,” Scott responded. “It will be exciting to see them grow throughout the season.”
Hampshire Whip-Purs
Coach: Omar Cortez (first season)
Last season: 19-17, 9-9 FVC (tied for fifth)
Top returners: Jorah Rutter, sr., S; Elizabeth King, jr., OH; Katelyn Petterson, jr., OH; Peyton Wurtz, jr., L; Anna Schiltz, jr., MB; Kylie Lambert, jr., S
Worth noting: Cortez enters his first year as head coach at Hampshire. … The Whip-Purs came up just short of back-to-back regional titles, falling to Hononegah 26-14, 24-26, 25-21, in the Class 4A Hononegah regional title match. … King and Wurtz were named to the All-FVC team. … Rutter is committed to Eastern Illinois and had 474 assists, 167 kills, 53 aces and 147 digs as a junior. … King tallied 302 kills, 68 aces and 194 digs as a sophomore. … Wurtz recorded 62 aces, 279 digs and 93 assists. … “My team’s strengths are that they have been together for two years and have the bond and chemistry to get over some of last year’s struggles,” Cortez said. “My expectation for this team and for the season as a program is very high, and I believe for the next three years we will be in the conversation for top three in conference.”
Harvest Christian Academy Lions
Coach: Andy Kownacki
Last year: 23-10, 6-0
Top returnees: Alyssa Burke sr., OH; Kenzie Weidman sr., OH; Taylor Martin, sr., L/DS; Ella Schoenberg, sr., S; Malea Learned sr., MH
Top newcomers: Zoe Nwole 5-9, So., OH/MH Jessica Vambute, 5-9, So., OH/RS; Alayna Booras 5-8, So., OH/RS
Worth noting: Harvest has three players who will continue playing in college: Martin (Bemidji State University), Schoenberg (Judson University) and Burke- (Judson University)....Kownacki expects another string season from his experienced squad. "I have a very strong senior class, with great underclassmen coming behind to strengthen the team," Kownacki said. "I look forward to pushing this team, and seeing how far they can go.
Hinsdale Central
Coach: Kelly Stapleton
Last season’s record: 24-12 overall; 3-3 in West Suburban Silver (tied for 3rd)
Top returners: Ava Young, sr. L; Alice Joergenrud, sr. MB; Caitlin Leddy, jr. S; Lauren Nieman, sr., MB; Caitlyn Peterson, sr. OH; Allie Garchar, sr. S; Nora Bergin, jr. OH
Key newcomers: Maddie Brooks, so. OH; Kaleigh Kozlowski, so. OH
Worth noting: The Red Devils’ added to a third straight 20-win season with their first regional title since 2012. Fourth-year starter Young, who received 2023 IVCA 4A honorable mention all-state honors, is 31 aces and 245 digs from becoming the program’s career leader in both. She currently ranks No. 2 and 3, respectively. Joergenrud, among the top 10 in career block kills, and Leddy enter their third varsity seasons. Previous starter Nieman was hampered by injury last season, and Leddy missed 2022 action with a broken wrist. Peterson, Garchar and Bergin return with expanded roles. “The team graduated seven seniors, including five key role players. Despite those losses, we are looking to come out strong,” Stapleton responded.
Hinsdale South
Coach: Ben Goodell
Last season’s record: 15-20 overall; 5-1 in West Suburban Gold (2nd); lost to Glenbard South 25-18, 23-25, 25-21 in 3A Glenbard South Regional final
Top returners: Kotryna Melstrad, jr. OH; Isabel Rios-Tejeda, sr.; Maeve Savage, jr.; Lexi Fedinec, sr. OH/RS; Jane Gallagher, sr.; Katarina Damis, sr. DS; Hailey Radicker, sr. OH/RS
Key newcomers: Kaleia Lin, jr. DS; Emily Musil, so. DS; Taryn Bazon, jr. OH; Paige Lilek, so. S
Worth noting: The Hornets have 11 seniors and are coming off their highest Gold finish since 2018. Third-year starter Melstrad earned all-conference. “She has the ability to generate kills at a strong clip and is one of the best defensive, serve-receiving outsides I’ve seen,” Goodell responded. Fourth-year starter Fedinec may add setter to her right-side hitting. Damis, Lin and Musil compete at libero. Experience and defensive grit is needed to offset most of the Hornets’ height graduating. “The team will be consistently scrappy on defense with some offensive weapons that can put up big numbers,” Goodell responded.
Huntley Red Raiders
Coach: Karen Naymola (13th season)
Last season: 31-7, 17-1 FVC (first)
Top returners: Georgia Watson, sr., RS; Mari Rodriquez, sr., DS-L; Jocelyn Erling, sr., MB; Alex Goritz, sr., DS-L; Sienna Robertson, sr., OH
Key newcomers: Abigail Whitehouse, jr., S; Emily Ernst, jr., S; Izzy Whitehouse, so., DS-L; Summer Massow, so., MB; Diellza Sejdini, sr., OH; Lucy Watson, fr., MB
Worth noting: Huntley won its seventh straight Class 4A regional title and dominated the FVC with a 17-1 record to claim back-to-back conference championships. The Red Raiders have dropped only one FVC match in the past two seasons, going 35-1. Huntley’s season ended with a 25-22, 15-25, 25-20 loss to Warren in a Class 4A Huntley sectional semifinal, ending a streak of three straight sectional titles. Huntley has reached 30 wins in four out of the past five seasons (not counting the COVID-19 shortened season). … The Raiders graduated Morgan Jones (team-high 301 kills, 57 aces) and setter Laura Boberg (748 assists). … Watson, a Kentucky commit, posted 218 kills, 26 blocks and 31 aces. … Erling will play at Harper College. … Huntley has nine seniors. … “I am excited about this team,” Naymola said. “We have great senior leadership and an entire team of talented and hardworking athletes. These kids love to work and push themselves and each other. Can’t wait to watch our growth throughout the season.”
IC Catholic Prep Knights
Coach: Lauren LaVigne (1st season)
Last season’s record: 36-4, 6-1 GCAC White (Class 2A state runner-up)
Top returners: Delilah Hyland, 6-0, sr., MB, Emily Carling, 5-7, sr., OH
Key newcomer: Mary Kate Hilgart, jr., S
Worth noting: Hyland is a returning Class 2A all-state selection after hitting .323 with 68 total blocks as a key cog in the Knights reaching the Class 2A state title match. She’s committed to UW Stevens Point. “Delilah is one of the most active middles I have seen,” LaVigne said. “She has great pin-to-pin movement, really great technique and timing, and is a highly effective hitter and teammate.” Carling, along with Hyland, also are returning all-GCAC White selections. “Our strengths will be our camaraderie and unity together,” said LaVigne, who took over from program playing and coaching great Nancy Kerrigan, who stepped down this summer. “They truly lift each other up and are each other’s biggest cheerleaders.” LaVigne likes the variety of hitters the team has across the net., while Defense will continue to be one ICCP’s key, longtime calling card. “One of the main things we focus on is serve-receive,” LaVigne said. “We have two strong returning defensive specialists/liberos that help us set the tone in the back row and we have great movement on defense.” Also keep an eye on libero-DS Natalie Lawton, who “reacts quickly and can consistently get the ball up to set up our offense,” LaVigne said.
Jacobs Golden Eagles
Coach: Mike Depa (fourth season)
Last season: 19-17, 9-9 FVC (tied for fifth)
Top returners: Jordan Miller, sr., L; Mia Koltuniuk, sr., DS; Alena Clarke, sr., DS; Layla Merlin, jr., RS
Key newcomers: Gianna Coletti, jr., S; Emmerson Freewalt, jr., MB; Gracyn Sanders, jr., MB; Hailie Barton, jr., MB; Maddie Mitchell, jr., OH; Rylee Van Stone, jr., OH-DS; Rachelle Zieba, so., OH
Worth noting: Jacobs fell to Warren 25-22, 25-27, 26-24 in the Class 4A Jacobs regional final, which would have been the team’s first regional title since 2021. … The Eagles graduated one of their top players in middle blocker Ali Pierre. … Jacobs graduated its top defensive player overall in Grace Breeze, but do return three senior defensive specialists. … “I expect our team to battle and be in every game that we play this year,” Depa said. “I am excited to see our junior and sophomore hitters coming up to the varsity level. We have a lot of strong hitters and I’m excited to see them pound the ball this year. We also have some new young hitters at the varsity level who bring a lot of power with their swing.”
Kaneland Knights
Coach: Cynthia Violett
2023 record: 27-11, 8-2 Interstate Eight
Top athletes: Morgan Beam, MH, sr.; Audrey Peters, OH, sr; Kayli Loonam, RS, sr.; Abby Carter, S, jr.
Worth noting: The Knights were one of only two area teams to win a regional title last year after defeating Montini in straight sets in a 3A regional championship match, but it’ll be a little harder to repeat the feat this season.
Beam, who is the only returning starter from last year, will be one of the main focal points of the offense, but will enter the season after suffering an arm injury during the offseason. Violett will be expecting players like Peters and Loonam to step up to try and take the Knights back to the regional championship.
“We will be a young but strong conference contender after graduating 10 seniors,” Violett said. “As always, the hopes and expectations are to make it to the regional championship game.”
Larkin Royals
Coach: Arika Rhodes
Worth noting: The Royals won three games a year ago, and now they turn to a new varsity coach in Rhodes. Other than two returnees, Larkin’s varsity will be made up of last year’s JV squad making the move up. Michelle Anderson is a new outside hitter to watch.
Lisle Lions
Coach: Payton Litney (1st season)
Last season’s record: 8-25, 1-13 Illinois Central Eight
Top returners: Isabella Furmanski, 6-2, sr., MB, Anna Gorzkowski, 5-8, jr., S, Sophia Harer, 5-8, jr., OH
Key newcomers: Grace Klicman, 5-11, jr., RS, Emily Staley, 6-0, soph., MB
Worth noting: Furmanski had 87 kills and 68 blocks last season and Litney said to keep an eye on her continued growth in the sport and the effect she will leave in her senior season. Gorzkowski had 127 kills and 160 assists. Harer also was a key contributor. Litney said a versatile offense and hustle on defense will aid the Lions, as will disciplined blocking and consistent serve-receive. Two more key cogs are Brooklyn Burton, whose dedication in the preseason, Litney noted, has set high expectations for her, as well as Chloe Hrabrich, whose consistency and effortless defense will be a huge asset,” Litney added.
Metea Valley Mustangs
Coach: Dave MacDonald (12th season)
Last season’s record: 28-9, 8-2 (DuPage Valley champions)
Top returners: Katie Schuele, 5-9, sr., S, Addison Torain, 5-7 sr., OH-Libero, Maddie Hopkins, 5-9, sr., OH, Kelly McGrath, 5-8, sr., RS, Jenna Green, 5-6, sr., DS-Libero, Olivia Stewart, 6-1, jr., MB, Ashley Ward, 5-8, jr., RS-S, Ava Guzaski, 5-6, jr., DS-Libero
Key newcomers: Cheliyah Mattox, 6-0, sr., MB, Eve Berta, 5-3, jr., DS-Libero, Allyse King, 5-6, soph., OH, Raina Parekh, 5-8, soph., MB
Worth noting: Schuele, headed to Division I East Carolina, is the reigning DVC player of the year and was an honorable-mention all-state pick. Torain (headed to Division I Winthrop), Hopkins and Stewart also earned all-DVC accolades, while Schuele, Torain and Stewart are returning all-area selections. “We are a very senior-heavy team and return everyone but two from our starting lineup,” said MacDonald, whose squad won a Class 4A regional title last season. “This is a very tight-knit group that gets along and wants to continue the success we have had over the past couple years.” Torain, who played libero last season, moves to the left side with the graduation of Camille Morrison (now at Western Michigan). MacDonald labels her the team’s Swiss Army Knife due to her position versatility the last four years on the Metea varsity. Hopkins, Stewart, McGrath and Ward are 2-year varsity players and continue to excel, MacDonald added. MacDonald said the DVC will be loaded with the Napervilles and other Valley schools presenting persistent challenges. “Our conference is very tough with veteran coaches who know each other very well,” he said.
Montini Broncos
Coach: Erik Vogt
Last season’s record: 10-26, 2-6 GCAC Red
Top returners: Morah Quirk, 6-0, soph., MB, Sienna Skarda, 5-11, sr., RS, Francesca Lorenzo, 5-11, jr., RS, Isabel Evenson, 5-9, sr., OH, Sophie Maquet, soph., OH
Key newcomers: Hope Garland, 5-6, fresh., Libero, Saniyah Arams, 5-8, fresh, Micaela Haggerty, 5-7, fresh., Peggy Pacelli, 5-8, fresh.
Worth noting; Skarda earned all-GCAC Red honors last season. “We gained some great experience from last season only losing 3 seniors,” Vogt pointed out. “With the addition of some very talent underclassmen, we should be very good defensively.” Versatility will be a strength on offense, while Evenson and Maquet should anchor the Bronco defense and freshman Garland should make an immediate on the floor, bringing with her an impressive club resume as a libero, Vogt pointed out. Vogt likes how Lorenzo has the ability to take over a game, and said Skarda will help as a solid and reliable player who can play any position needed.
Naperville Central Redhawks
Coach: Brienne Isaacson (20th season)
Last season’s record: 19-16, third DuPage Valley
Top returners: Georgia Von Lehmden, 6-1, RS, Sara Butler, 5-9, S, Makenna Devick, 5-9, OH
Key newcomers: Caroline Impey, 5-9, jr., OH, Sophia Svingen, 6-1, jr., RS
Worth noting: Von Lehmden (San Jose State) and Butler (Austin Peay) will both continue their careers at the Division I college level, while Von Lehmden, Butler and Devick are returning all-DVC picks. “We are an experienced team,” Isaacson said. “We will be scrappy on defense and balanced on offense. We have several attackers who can contribute.” Isaacson noted Von Lehmden, Butler and Devick, all three-year varsity players, have great passion for the game “and are also hard workers,” she said. Isaacson said Metea Valley and Naperville North will be tough in the league.
Naperville North Huskies
Coach: Jennifer Urban (21st season)
Last season’s record: 12-16, 7-3 DuPage Valley (runner-up)
Top returners: Paige Selman, 5-8, sr., S, Bella Fleurima, 5-10, jr., OH
Key newcomer: Joelle Pye-Blacknard, 5-10, soph., OH
Worth noting: Six players return from last season’s DVC runner-up team. Urban (551-166 in 21 seasons) said Alabama A&M commit Fleurima and Selman “are poised to be exceptional leaders on and off the court,” she said. Pye-Blacknard is poised to make a significant impact on the left side, Urban noted. “Despite having a relatively young and inexperienced roster, our dedication and hard work promise continued improvement throughout the season,” Urban said.
Neuqua Valley Wildcats
Coach: Jamie Buhnerkemper (3rd season)
Last season’s record: 19-18, 5-5 DuPage Valley
Top returners: Alyssa Jones, 5-5, sr., Libero, Hailey Stumpf, 5-11, sr., MB, Lauren Schmidtgall, 5-6, sr., DS
Key newcomers: Tatum Kelly, 5-11, fresh., S, Ella Cole, 6-1, jr., OH
Worth noting: Jones is a 3-year varsity player who led the team in digs last season and will surpass the 500-career-dig total early this season. Stumpf registered 68 kills and was second on the team with 41 blocks. “We bring back the core of our defense in Alyssa and Lauren. We have great leadership in the back court,” Buhnerkemper said. “Our consistency in serve-receive and trust in our large block will help us.” Buhnerkemper likes the versatility the team has in the front row and two new dynamic setters, “who run a quick and fluid system,” she said. Kelly, Cole and Addison Frisby will be fighting to be the team’s go-to, Buhnerkemper noted. “I am looking forward to which one will step up to the role,” she said.
Rosary Royals
Coach: Kate Scafidi
2023 record: 10-24, 3-3 Girls Catholic Athletic Conference
Top players: Clare McEniry, RS, sr.; Molly Lambert, S, sr.; Lily Caruso, S/RS, sr; Sarah Wessels, DS/L, sr.; Reese Gilla, MB, sr; Sarah Nierman, MB, sr.
Worth noting: Scafidi is entering her first season as head coach with a senior-heavy team that is looking to finish above .500 for the first time since 2019.
McEniry will look to be the main piece at the net after putting up 260 kills, 171 digs and 31 service aces a season ago to earn a GCAC White Division All-Conference Team selection. Caruso, 153 kills and 37 aces, will most likely be the secondary option. Lambert also returns after putting up 445 assists and 34 aces.
With the amount of seniors on the team, Scafidi said this is a team that may be a surprise in the GCAC this season.
“I’m thrilled to be back at my alma mater as head coach, and there’s no better group of players than the one Rosary has this year,” Scafidi said. “They’re driven, passionate and wildly talented, and they’re going to fight tooth-and-nail to win out from start to finish. They’re a very senior group, so we started preseason leaps and bounds ahead, and it shows.”
South Elgin Storm
Coach: Jesse Bossenga
Last seaon’s record: 13-23, 5-4
Top returners: Grace Bach, sr., MH; Paige Genke, jr., S; Alena Amel, jr., MH
Top newcomers: Bri Decheva, so., OH; Cassie Verley, jr., OH
Worth noting: Bach is coming off a strong club season while Genke brings more experience as a third-year starter and the “leader of our offense” according to Bossenga. … Amel is expected to make an impact at the net; Decheva should provide control and consistency, and Verley is making a position change to the outside, giving the Storm a strong attack. … South Elgin has 13 seniors. “They are a tight group that I am excited to see how they play together and pull for each other,” Bossenga said.
St. Charles East
Coach: Kate McCullagh
2023 record: 9-26, 3-4 DuKane
Top players: Kaleigh McQuillen, MH, sr.; Morgan Tapson, OH, sr.; Claire Trask, S, sr.; Avery Smith, DS, sr.; Kaylee McInnis, OH, jr.; Sofia O’Sullivan, MH, sr.
Worth noting: After the Saints came away with a fourth-place finish to cap off the coaching career of longtime coach Jennie Kull, they struggled to find their footing in their first season under McCullagh, but still managed to pull off some wins to finish fifth in the conference.
With the last five players on the 2022 roster graduating after last year, and with key players such as McQuillen and McInnis returning with a year of experience under their belt and a good batch of newcomers coming in, it wouldn’t be surprising if the Saints start to get back to their winning sooner rather than later.
St. Charles North
Coach: Lindsey Hawkins
2023 record: 23-14, 6-1 DuKane
Top players: Haley Burgdorf, OH, jr.; Mia McCall, S, jr.; Sidney Wright, MB, jr.; Meg Kalenowski, L, sr.
Worth noting: Despite losing eight seniors to graduation last season, the North Stars return a roster that has more experience than what was expected at the beginning of last year due to a surplus of injuries.
Leading the charge will be the trio of juniors – Burgdorf, McCall and Wright. Burgdorf, who committed to Penn State in July, is expected to take a bigger lead part this season after leading the North Stars with 344 kills, 42% kill percentage, 190 digs and 30 blocks a season ago.
McCall slid into the setter role perfectly last season with 408 assists to go along with 36 aces and 47 digs, and Wright asserted herself at the net after leading the team with 47 blocks.
Along with Kalenowski assuming the libero role after filling in for an injured Jackie Ruder for most of last season, Hawkins is expecting for the four of them, along with the young supporting cast, to help the North Stars to their 21st straight winning season.
“All four of these returners had to step up in a big way and shoulder much of the load for most of last season. That situation has definitely given these players a lot of experience leading already, which is good because their supporting cast is quite young this year,” Hawkins said. “We are looking forward to being very competitive this year and seeing the fruits of all the hard work these girls have put in during the club season. They are a very talented group, so fitting all the pieces together these last two weeks has been very fun. I’m looking forward to seeing what they can accomplish.”
St. Edward Green Wave
Coach: Dawn Gross
Last year: 15-17, 1-6
Top returners: Samantha Pogorzelski Jr., S; Savannah Lynch, so., MH/OH; Alaina Nolan, Jr., MH
Top newcomers: Francesca Buono Jr. OH/MH/DS/L; Annabelle Deang, Jr., DS/L/S; Giana Forlini, so., DS/L Taylor Kapetan, Jr.,MH/OH
Worth noting: Pogorzelski is a three-year varsity player who led the team in assists(405) and aces (80)...Lynch had 80 kills and led the team with blocks last year as a freshman.....Nolan gives the team a solid middle, and her swing is stronger according to Gross.... The newcomers include the versatile Buono who brings showing great passing and defense along with several other skills....St. Edward has no seniors on the team this year. "These girls are up for the challenge to play great volleyball in this harder conference," Gross said of the Chicagoland Christian. "We know what these teams are about and will be ready for them. These girls have great energy and just need to fine tune their skills. We have a little more height and vertical jumps and plan on using it."
St. Francis Spartans
Coach: Lisa Ston (9th season)
Last season’s record: 34-8, 5-2 GCAC White (Class 3A state champions)
Top returners: Addy Horner, 6-3, sr., S-RS, Emma Delaney, 5-11, sr., MB
Key newcomers: Dylan Kokkinos, 5-3, sr., Libero, Jenna Glaudel, 5-9, sr., S-RS, MacKenzie Krus, 5-9, jr., S-OH
Worth noting: The defending Class 3A state champions of equal noteworthiness return state tournament MVP Horner (headed to University Wisconsin). Krus is committed to George Washington, while Glaudel is back after missing last season with a knee injury and brings quick hands, versatility and a competitive drive to the table. “Our strengths will be that we hope to run a varied offense with many options to score behind the leadership of Addy Horner,” said Ston, who has coached in the Francis program for 25 seasons. Offensively, Ston is excited about the versatility of the Spartans’ roster to attack from multiple positions. Kokkinos will lead the defensive charge, added Ston, who noted Francis will have its hands full in an always tough Girls Catholic Athletic Conference. Delaney will also be key at the net. “Emma is an experienced middle who likes to be involved in the action,” Ston said.
Timothy Christian Trojans
Coach: Scott Piersma (12th season)
Last season’s record: 28-7, 10-0 (Chicagoland Christian champions)
Top returners: Abby VanderWal, 6-3, sr., OH, Bella Potempa, 5-7, jr., OH, Ella Rickert, 6-1, jr., MB, Elizabeth Alex, 5-10, jr. ,S
Key newcomers: Jenna Wasco, 5-11, sr., RS, Audrey Williams, 6-0, soph., MB
Worth noting: The Trojans have experience back from a 2023 team that won a conference title and reached a Class 2A sectional final. The key here is another season of VanderWal, one of the top prep players in the country headed to coach Jerritt Elliott’s University of Texas squad. VanderWal hit .527 on the pin last season, while being one of the team’s primary passers. Potempa finished with 191 kills, 190 digs and 56 aces, while Rickert had 100 kills and 52 blocks out of the middle as a 10th grader. Alex had 261 assists and 84 digs. Wasco is a transfer from York. Potempa and Rickert also are receiving college interest. “It’s not a lie that all our hitters are capable of swinging in multiple positions,” Piersma said. “We will be able to move girls around and show teams a lot of different looks. Abby, of course, is our top player, but the other girls are great complements to her that will allow us to take some of the load off her shoulders.” Height and length at the net will be keys for Timothy’s defense, Piersma noted. “Balls needing to go over our block will give our back row plenty of time to see, move and pick up the ball,” he explained. “if we can get our block set consistently in the correct spot, we should be able to force opposing offenses into predicable patterns.” VanderWal should get her 1,000th career varsity kill early in the season. Piersma said Chicago Christian and Wheaton Academy will be top challengers in the Chicagoland Christian Conference.
Waubonsie Valley Warriors
Coach: Kari Galen (9th season)
Last season’ record: 17-19, 5-5 DuPage Valley
Top returners: Naomi David, sr., RS, Kaitlyn Reinhard, sr., OH, Ava Bellafiore, sr., OH, Asia Mitchell, sr., Libero-DS, Liv O’Hara, jr., S
Key newcomers: Hailee Pietryk, jr., Libero-DS, Anna Axelsen, soph., MB, Belle Black, soph., S
Outlook: Dowd, a Northern Illinois commit, was an all-DVC selection, while Reinhard, Mitchell and Bellafiore were special mention picks on a team that took third in the league. Experience and shared common goals will power Waubonsie this season, Galen noted. Dowd, Galen explained, is a tough defend on the right side for opponents due to high reach and a quick arm, and is looking to incorporate more middle attacking this fall. Mitchell is a dynamic 2-year varsity libero and is the team’s strongest defender — contributing to a quick back row, while Reinhard brings volleyball intelligence on the outside and can find open areas on the court, Galen noted. In the DVC, Galen expects defending champion Metea and Naperville North to be strong. “Our group is really special and I am excited to see what they can accomplish,” she said. “We mesh really well together.”
West Aurora Blackhawks
Coach: Brandon Vicory
2023 record: 13-22, 3-8 Southwest Prarie
Top athletes: Maureen Pokryfke, OH, sr.; Taylor Baratta, MH, sr.; Sydney Wagner, OH, jr.; Ella Maxwell, S, jr.; Lexi Jacquez, L, sr.
Worth noting: The last time West Aurora played in the Upstate Eight Conference, they ended with a 7-2 record and a third-place finish in 2018. Six years later, the Blackhawks hope that the change in conference can help them to their first winning season since 2020.
West Aurora has a good base for a turnaround season after returning all but three players from last season, including key players at the net in Pokryfke (Wisconsin-Oshkosh commit) and Baratta (Carthage commit), who led the team in kills last year.
“Being in a new conference, we are in the unknown about the competition of the other teams,” Vicory said. “But hopefully we can compete for a conference title in the Upstate Eight.”
West Chicago Wildcats
Coach: Mackenzie Bell (3rd season)
Last season’s record: 23-11, 9-0 (Upstate Eight champions)
Top returners: Taylor Frake, 5-8, jr., OH, Jasmyn Trigueros, 5-7, sr., S
Key newcomers: Gracie Perry, 5-6, jr., Libero, Brielle Borner, 5-10, soph., OH
Outlook: Bell said serving will be a major strength this fall. “We have very tough servers,” she said. “I am excited to see us use that to our advantage, as well as see how seeing that aggressive serving in our training challenges our passers. We have a great group of dedicated, hardworking girls who have a lot of heart and hustle on the court.” While undersized on offense, quickness and athleticism will make up for that, Bell said. Hustle on defense and a focus on reading capabilities should lead to more touches on defense, she added. Trigueros earned all-UEC honorable-mention accolades last season, and may add hitting duties to her all-around game, while Frake is looking to take the next step after being a key 6-rotation contributor as a sophomore. Keep an eye on newcomer Perry, a junior libero, who Bell noted brings scrappy play and strong court awareness to the table.
Westmont Sentinels
Coach: Jason Gentile (2nd season)
Last season’s record: 7-25, 1-5 Chicago Prep
Top returners: Jade Curtis, 5-10, sr., RS, Briseis Stanescu, 5-6, sr., OH, Kendal Solik, 5-5, sr., RS, Daylah Belmonte, 5-2, jr., DS
Key newcomers: Elizabeth De La Graza, 5-6, sr., S, Kallie Niemer, 5-8, jr., MB, Kotryna Vanagas, 5-8, soph., OH, Alice O’Connor, 5-5, soph., RS, Ryley Johnson, 5-6, soph., S, Elle Strohmaier, 5-1, soph., DS
Worth noting: Stanescu earned all-conference accolades a year ago as the Sentinels’ top attacker in kills and hitting percentage. “Our strengths will be in our pins and our will to play as hard as possible on every play,” Gentile said. Gentile added he likes the tempo Westmont plays at offensively and its ability to hit different shots in different situations. Defensively, he added the team is working on controlling first contact. Curtis has worked her way back from injury and “is looking like the player who can dominate a match,” Gentile said, who also labeled Vanagas as a young rising star in the program.
Wheaton Academy Warriors
Coach: Leah Dunlap (2nd season)
Last season’s record: 29-6, Chicagoland Christian runner-up
Top returners: Katelyn Kulesza, S, Kiera Morrison, OH, Kiana Shields, MB-RS, Abby Schroeder, MH, Maddie Lennox, Libero
Worth noting: Wheaton Academy has 5 returning starters, including Shields, who is headed to Northern Illinois University. Dunlap said varsity experience, quality leadership, firepower on offense and an outstanding libero in Lennox will fuel the Warriors. “We have girls who can make plays from all across the net and a libero that takes over passing to truly allow our offense to be successful,” she said. Speaking of Lennox: “Maddie takes over the game and allows our team to run such a strong offense because she gets every ball up,” Dunlap said. “She also is always smiling and is a great teammate.” Pin hitter Mary Patrick also is drawing rave reviews. “Mary has put in so much work since last year and has improved,” Dunlap said.
Wheaton North Falcons
Coach: Justin Hineman
Last season’s record: 13-23 overall; 1-6 in DuKane (8th); lost to Geneva 25-10, 25-16 in 4A Addison Trail Regional semifinals
Top returners: Olivia Zamis, sr. MH; Halina Istanbouli, sr. P; Mary Kate Whittington, jr. P; Izzy Gibbons, sr. S; Kate Koliopolous, sr. DS; Emilia Lee, sr. DS; Mackenzie Nettles, sr. P; Emily Rochford, so. S; Hannah Van Denend, jr. P
Key newcomers: Chloe Zych, sr. DS; Sophia Ohashi, jr. S; Abby Lee, jr. DS; Aurora Zingales, jr. S; Ava Schell, jr. P; Haley Hanavan, jr. P; Addison Clausing, fr. MH
Worth noting: The Falcons are determined to rejoin the area elite behind a large returning group that gained significant experience in 2023. Zamis was IVCA 4A honorable mention all-state and All-DKC last season with 128 kills and 80 total blocks, which ranked 10th in 4A, following 74 blocks and 116 kills as a sophomore. Also surpassing 100 kills were Nettles (team-high 151), Whittington (135) and Istanbouli (114). Gibbons led with 222 assists, Emilia Lee (149) and Koliopoulos (148) were 1-2 in digs and Koliopoulos was second with 34 aces. “This team has a lot of potential and plans on using multiple lineups all season to maximize the depth of talent,” Hineman responded.
Wheaton Warrenville South Tigers
Coach: Bill Schreier
Last season’s record: 24-14 overall; 6-1 in DuKane (co-champions with St. Charles North)
Top returners: Lauren Coyne, sr. OH; Cate Cassin, sr. OH; Katie Dragas, jr. MH; Kayla Paige, jr. L
Key newcomers: Sarah Hartnett, sr. OH; Zoe Dragas, jr. OPP; Tessa Gonzalez, sr. MH; Mackenzie Hartman, jr. OH; Alison Coyne, fr. S; Audrey Utz, jr. S
Worth noting: The Tigers have experience and a resilient group featuring four-year starter Lauren Coyne and returning starters Cassin, Katie Dragas and Paige. Add talented newcomers, such as Alison Coyne, Lauren’s sister, and most players should be able to play at their most effective positions. Co-captains Lauren Coyne and Cassin especially will set the tone early. “With (Coyne’s) hitting experience, she will be the engine that gets us going,” Schreier responded. “Cate Cassin will help diversify our offense.” It’s also one of Schreier’s tallest teams ever with Lauren Coyne 6-3, Katie Dragas, Zoe Dragas and Hartman 6-0 and Gonzalez 5-11. “Now is the time to figure out where all of these pieces will fit,” Schreier responded. “We will go through some growing pains early as we incorporate younger players, but the talent in the gym cannot be denied.”
Willowbrook Warriors
Coach: Irene Mason
2023 results: 40-2 overall; 6-0 in West Suburban Gold (champions); 3rd in 4A -- beat Barrington 25-20, 23-25, 25-17 for third at state finals
Varsity returners: Hannah Kenny, sr. S/RS; Anna Marinier, sr. OH/RS; Lily Javier, sr. OH/RS; Ellie Branch, sr. MB/DS; Sydney Brown, sr. DS; Giada Crocetti, sr. DS; Olivia Pollak, sr. OH/RS; Wendy Pollak, sr. OH/RS
Key newcomers: Julia Amin, jr. MB; Maggie Hurley, so. MB; Kendall Norton, jr. S; Melanie Marinier, so. S
College commitment: Kenny (Louisville)
Worth noting: The Warriors are riding high after the greatest season in program history. Three returning senior starters and five more returning seniors continue the high standards. “We have a lot of close competition and dynamic players who can play a lot of roles,” Mason responded. Fourth-year starter and Louisville recruit Kenny is a three-time All-WSC Gold selection who surpassed 1,000 career assists while collecting 457 in 2023. The 5-7 Kenny also was second in digs (284), kills (245) and aces (100). Anna Marinier was third in kills (152) and fourth in digs (170) and Javier had 90 kills and 48 digs. “The team has been working really hard every day, connecting with each other and improving. The energy is the gym has been electric, and the new players are learning quickly and getting up to speed.” Mason responded.
York Dukes
Coach: Danny Piwowarczyk
Last season’s record: 25-12 overall; 3-3 in West Suburban Silver (tied for 3rd); lost to Hinsdale Central 25-20, 25-22 in 4A Morton Regional final
Top returners: Katie Day, jr. OPP/OH; Amalia Toliopoulos, jr. S/OPP; Lilly Roach, sr. MH/OPP; Ava Nawrocki, sr. L
Key newcomers: Lila Bennis, fr. L/DS; Eileen Carroll, fr. OH/OPP; Reese Timmerwilke, jr. MH/OPP; Audrey Faley, jr. MH/OPP; Allison Fehlberg, jr. L/DS
Worth noting: The Dukes graduated eight seniors from a second straight 20-win campaign but return third-year varsity players Day and Toliopoulos and inherit several motivated newcomers. Day (171 kills, 29 blocks), Toliopoulos (115 kills, 128 assists, 13 blocks) and Roach (90 kills) were key offensive components. Emerging Roach also had a team-best 57 blocks as she looks to establish herself among top area middles. Libero Nawrocki (61 digs, 171 serve receptions, 1.84 passer rating) will anchor the defensive corps, which includes freshmen Bennis and Carroll with extensive club experience. “I feel very positively about the potential of this group,” Piwowarczyk responded. “I am excited about the work ethic and love of volleyball. It should be a fun season working to try to become the best team we can be.”
Bill Stone, John Lemon, Joel Boenitz and Alex Kantecki contributed to this preview