Players to Watch: Normal Univerity vs. JCA – 3A semis
Normal University vs. JCA, Friday, November 15, 5:30 pm. Before breaking down the players to watch in this IHSA 3A semifinal tilt, here is a little background on both programs. This is the second trip to states for Normal (University)…
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Continue ReadingNormal University vs. JCA, Friday, November 15, 5:30 pm.
Before breaking down the players to watch in this IHSA 3A semifinal tilt, here is a little background on both programs.
This is the second trip to states for Normal (University) as a 3A Division team, the first in 2017. Although they have made the tourney eight times, winning it in 1999, 2000 as an “A” Division team. Coach Mike Bolhuis (179-64) is in his seventh year as Normal University’s Head Coach.
Joliet Catholic Academy (JCA) is no stranger to the state tournament as they are three-time state titleholders (2003, 2008, 2009) all under current head Coach Christine Scheibe. In her 20 year career, Scheibe amassed a 589-189-10 record, including this season 25-14 record. Last year, the Angels finished third in the state tournament.
Players to Watch:
Lily Barry (2023, 5’6, OH, Normal University)
Although not the main star of this team, but Lily is the constant note that Normal University plays in a match. She is steady and a solid teammate that has 242 kills, 20 blocks and 33 aces on the year.
Alayna Crabtree (2020, 6’2, OH, Normal University)
The team leader in kills with 328, she also comes in second with 242 digs. Alayna’s 52 service aces is the team’s best sharpshooter!
Riley Hungate (2021, 5’9, OH, JCA)
Riley had a solid match against De La Salle in the Super-Sectionals. University’s blocking at the pins could give her some trouble
Erin O’Grady (2020, 5’6, L, JCA)
Defensively for the Angels, her 267 leads the team in digs. She is an offensive weapon as well, with a team topping 41 aces during the 2019 campaign.
Bella Ray (2020, 6’3, MH, JCA)
A force in the middle Bella had 289 kills and 92 blocks on the season. They like to run the middle and Bella will be a key cog to JCA’s Success.
Maycie Welborn (2021, 6’3, MH, Normal University)
Maycie tallied 165 kills and 80 blocks in 2019. This should be a great matchup between Maycie and JCA’s Ray if the rotation shows itself. Two strong and tall middles facing each other.