The Almosts: 2A Teams And Players That Need More Pub

<p>Oftentimes with my research of hundreds of teams and thousands of athletes, there are some that slip through the cracks. This series highlights teams that wouldn’t otherwise get attention, but have had seasons that are worthy of publicity. Here are five teams in 2A that can make waves this postseason and the players who can make a difference.</p> <p><strong>Illiana Christian (24-6)</strong></p> <p>The first of two Vikings programs on this list, Illiana Christian is a recent addition to the IHSAA. Located a stone’s throw away from Illinois in Dyer, Indiana, the Greater South Shore Conference Champions split their schedule between both sides of the state line. Hopefully, they won’t look TOO far ahead; Andrean looms in the sectional semis if the Vikings get that far. We’re especially proud of <strong>Mia Doorn (’22, 5-8 OH)</strong> and her leadership, as her primary passing and nearly four kills per set will be the key to their success.</p> <p><strong>North Posey (22-5)</strong></p> <p>Here are the second group of Vikings, who schedule tough enough in the southern half of the state to be prepared for the postseason. I don’t think NP wanted to run into 2A #2 Tecumseh in the sectional semifinals, but this is what you train for. <strong>Julia Fullop (’22, 5-7 OH)</strong> is the Vikings’ x-factor, averaging nearly 4 kills per set while hitting close to .300 on the season as a primary passer.</p> <p><strong>Park Tudor (24-4)</strong></p> <p>The Panthers did what I thought they couldn’t---beat 3A Muncie Burris in the Pioneer Conference tournament championship match, which is no small task if you know Indiana volleyball. That kind of confidence and tough scheduling is huge for this program, who have a first-year coach leading them to that trophy. Although we shouldn’t be looking ahead, this four-team sectional doesn’t start until Saturday, and they’ll probably play 2A top five Western Boone in the sectional final. Should be a fun match. <strong>[player_tooltip player_id="85932" first="Ava" last="Smith"] (’23, 6-0 OH)</strong> and her 5+ kills per set while hitting almost .400 as a pin attacker should be carrying the load for the Panthers.</p> <p><strong>Linton-Stockton (25-3)</strong></p> <p>The Miners won the Southwestern Indiana Conference title earlier this fall, and drew a super tough North Knox (20-9) team in the sectional. Their losses include state runner-up Loogootee, 4A Terre Haute South and 2A power Covenant Christian. Not bad scheduling if you ask me. Here’s to hoping that they’re ready to hoist another sectional trophy. <strong>[player_tooltip player_id="101227" first="Gentry" last="Warrick"] (’22, 6-1 MB)</strong> brings size and strength that other 2A teams just don’t see that often. Her 4+ kills per set and .400 hitting will be needed to get out of this sectional.</p> <p><strong>South Adams (24-8)</strong></p> <p>The Starfires have already started their sectional, and knocked off a feisty Wabash squad in the first round on Tuesday. They advanced to the semifinals against Adams Central, and hope to advance to the sectional final on Saturday night. Like the other teams on this list, upper class leadership is key in the postseason. <strong>[player_tooltip player_id="118191" first="Carlie" last="Sealscott"] (’22, 5-7 OH)</strong> might need a little help, as her 3+ KPS/.300+ hitting split might not be enough to carry the roster. Here’s to hoping she gets a little help.</p>