Opitz, Vernon Hills set for another fine season
It seems by now he should be setting at the college level.
The good news for Vernon Hills volleyball this spring is star setter Justin Opitz has not graduated yet.
Heading into his last season in high school, the Cougars setter has 1,281 assists. He dished out a school-record 927 during Vernon Hills’ 35-win season a year ago. He was named all-conference and all-area.
“He’s, hands down, the best setter in the sectional area,” Cougars coach Chris Curry said. “I’d propose he’s one of the best in the state. We are looking forward to the same great decision-making he showed last year — and also his same calm (demeanor) in pressure situations as well as improved attacking and blocking.”
Opitz’s options will include Garrett Kubacki (2010 all-NSC) and Thomas Robinson (2010 honorable mention all-NSC).
Curry’s team has won the NSC crown three years in a row. But the Cougars have yet to get out of the sectional. They once again fell to Buffalo Grove in a glorious sectional final last spring.
“You couldn’t come much closer than we did last year,’’ Curry said. “And that experience has really driven these seniors in the off-season. They’ve been tremendously focused in the gym preparing for that chance if we get it again. This is a great group of kids.”
Antonijevic makes splash with Pepperdine commit: Stevenson senior Nik Antonijevic recently made a verbal commitment to Pepperdine University in Malibu, Calif., where he’ll play for legendary coach Marv Dunphy, who’s in his 28th season as the Waves’ head coach.
Dunphy has led Pepperdine to four NCAA volleyball titles and boasts a career record of 507-199. He is noted for his highly technical approach to the game and diligent training methods. He was the 2005 National Coach of the Year. As a result of his training, 19 different Waves have earned 34 All-American first team accolades. Pepperdine players have been named All-Americans 51 times under Dunphy’s direction.
The 6-foot-8 Antonijevic just received his acceptance letter from Pepperdine. He has great respect for Dunphy.
“He’s like an idol,” Antonijevic said. “I’m inspired to play volleyball for him.”
Antonijevic is switching from right side to outside hitter this season. He plays middle blocker for his Adversity club team. The senior was impressive both at the net and in the back row against New Trier in Stevenson’s season-opening, three-game loss.
“He’s just learning to play the outside position,” coach Tim Crow said. “Once he gets going, he’s going to be great.”
Ÿ Joe Aguilar contributed to this report.