Kadra Balla waited a long time to get her chance to play on Mundelein’s varsity team.
The outside hitter slowly worked her way through the program until earning a spot on the varsity in her senior season. Balla said she didn’t lose sight of her goal and didn’t waver in her commitment to it.
“It did take a lot of patience and a lot of hard work and dedication,” Balla said. “But having gone through all the levels, it showed me to work hard. Once I got my opportunity to get on varsity, I’m giving it all I got. I worked to get here. I’ve played all the other levels, so I’m ready to be a leader.”
Balla had six kills, three aces and 16 digs in a three-set loss to Stevenson last week. Her all-around skills are a big plus for the Mustangs, who returned just two players and have three freshmen on the roster.
“It feels really good,” Balla said. “I think I’ve played fairly well. I’m used as a player who goes all the way around. I hit in the front row and pass in the back row. Against Stevenson, I was the floor captain. I think I did a good job with communication. We played hard. I was able to be a voice and help our team.”
Balla has played varsity soccer since her freshman year. A midfielder, Balla said soccer is her main sport, but “I love them both.” Her experience in soccer is helping her be a better leader in volleyball.
“We have a lot of teammates from different classes this year,” Balla said. “It’s been a blast playing with new teammates that I’ve not necessarily played with before. I’m super excited to see where our team goes.”
Coach George Dressen said the Mustangs are missing several players because of spring break, but he’s been encouraged by their strong play. Mundelein (1-1) defeated Waukegan in two sets in the season opener.
“We have played well, and the team has enjoyed being together,” he said. “Some areas that we’ve been working on this week are limiting unforced errors and offensively putting more balls away.”
Seniors lead Grayslake North: Grayslake North entered the season with high expectations based on its experienced group. The Knights, who have nine seniors, have defeated Vernon Hills and Wauconda.
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Grayslake North coach Jim Sarver said four-year starters Jessica Pozezinski and Alyssa Gerzel are the team’s primary leaders.
“Alyssa is No. 1 all-time in career kills in all categories, and Jessica is second all-time in kills and is the all-time leader in serve-receive percentage,” he said.
“Emily Bongiovanni is the best middle hitter to come through the program and boasts a 45% kill percentage and is second all-time in blocks and is a three-year starter. Teagan Johnston is also a three-year starter and has the highest vertical in school history and is a great opposite hitter. These players have won the most games as a group in the history of the school.”
Sarver said the Knights are looking forward to an April 3 test at the Libertyville quad, which includes Carmel and Lake Forest.
Juniors emerging: Zion-Benton’s junior-dominated team is adapting to a new rotation. Coach Courtney Lastacy said junior Amber Wisch is a key returning starter among her high number of upperclassmen.
“We have some hardworking, athletic girls who want to win,” Lastacy said. “Amber has improved. She’s no longer just a force in the front row, but a force all the way. Olivia Pandazi has transitioned from setting to libero, and she’s doing well. Her quickness is helping our back row.”
Meanwhile, Stevenson coach Tim Crow noted junior outside hitter Amanda Holsen and junior middle hitter Michelle Gonchar are stepping up this season.
“Amanda has been able to improve her game and physical presence over the past year,” Crow said. “Michelle has really improved her game from last season to this season.”
Bob Narang is a freelance reporter for the News-Sun.