The 2022 Lady Lopes won the section over Sto-Rox, Freedom, New Brighton, Hopewell, Central Valley, and Quaker Valley. Heading into the playoffs, they are 3rd beneath Shenango and Freeport. The 2022 Class 2A Section 4 All-Stars included first-team Sam Blose, Sophie Culley, Mary Gannon, and Nora Kate Gavin. The second team had Victoria Huffmyer and Gemma Kosko. Getting selected for the teams is based on coaches from the section’s votes as well as stats from previous games. Being selected is a major achievement that the girls should be extremely proud of.
Heading into WPIALs, the team started off playoffs against Seton LaSalle, the number 19 seed. They won and had to face the 6 seed, Beaver. They also managed to beat them in 3 sets and advanced to not only the WPIAL playoffs but also secured a spot in the PIAA State Playoffs. Going into the semi-final match, they had to play a tough opponent, Shenango, coming in as the 2 seed. Both teams battled through a long back-and-forth match going all the way to 5 sets. Sadly the team did not win, but the season continues into PIAA competition. The WPIAL championship takes place Saturday at 3:30 at RMU against Freeport and Shenango, which will determine where the girls will be playing on Tuesday for the first round of states. Both teams in the championship will force the Lady Lopes to travel at least an hour for their states matchup.
Athletic Director Andrea Patton has a very positive opinion of the volleyball program as a whole. During an interview, Mrs. Patton stated, “The volleyball program in general is a model program for how to get students and community and youth interested in coming out to the events.” This year the team hosted many events to get everyone involved, such as chuck a duck, 80s night, and dig pink.
The events not only brought in fans but raised money for the volleyball boosters and outside organizations. Donnie Iris was brought in to sing the National Anthem and attracted the attention of many teachers to come out to watch the game. Ms. Patton said, “Those are things that might get people who don’t necessarily get volleyball or know some of you but might be interested in Donnie Iris to come out and watch and that’s what gets them hooked,” as well as “Sometimes it’s just about getting some people out who may not know what volleyball is all about. In general you’ve been a really high note of the fall season.” Overall the team looks forward to continuing the success into the PIAA State Playoffs.