Benet
Although the Redwings (37-5) lost three of their top five attackers to graduation, the defending Class 4A state runners-up have the talent to make a run at the state title. The defense will be exceptional with junior Aniya Warren (Indiana), senior Christine Pullen and junior Morgan Asleson. Junior setter Audrey Asleson (Colorado) has plenty of weapons to rely on, including senior outside Ava Novak, sophomore middle Lynney Tarnow and junior middle Gabby Stasys.
Metea Valley
The Mustangs (26-10) welcome back seven players after winning a 4A regional title, led by senior outside Camille Morrison. Junior Kelly McGrath and sophomore Ashley Ward will split the setting duties again, while senior Anna Murphy and sophomore Olivia Stewart provide size in the middle. Junior Addison Torain moves from outside to libero.
Naperville Central
Coach Brie Isaacson describes her team as “competitive and gritty,” and the Redhawks (17-20) hope those traits will produce a winning record. Junior setter Sarah Butler and junior outside Makenna Devick led their Sports Performance club team to a 16U AAU national championship this summer. Senior middle blocker Sophia Zanca, a three-year starter, and junior opposite Georgia Von Lehmden were all-conference last season.
Naperville North
Eight players are back after the Huskies (35-4) lost to Benet in a 4A sectional final. Senior middle Simi Kapustova and senior right side Liz Rossi are returning all-conference players. Senior liberos Allison Higgs and Sydney Kushner also are back, and senior Leah Norris takes over at setter.
Neuqua Valley
The Wildcats (21-14) return senior outside Brianna Clasen, junior libero Alyssa Jones and versatile senior Eleanor O’Neal, who can play middle or right side. Coach Jamie Buhnerkemper is encouraged by the potential of freshman setter Aubrey Dumstorff. Other newcomers include two college beach recruits, senior outside Lauren Mariscal (Tennessee-Martin) and sophomore setter/DS Sophie Kane (Concordia Irvine).
Waubonsie Valley
The Warriors (10-24) continue to rebuild with four starters returning. Junior right side Naomi Dowd was an all-conference special mention, while senior Sam Miserendino and junior Asia Mitchell were all-conference honorable mentions on defense. Junior outside Kaitlyn Reinhard is the other seasoned player on a young team that has three new setters.
Matt Le Cren is a freelance reporter for the Naperville Sun.