Weekend Spotlight: A Rematch We’ve Waited for

As we embark into the weekend, there are some matchups I have my eye on. Some teams are on the rise and taking on some of the best in the state. So let’s take a closer look at some matchups that are going to be a must-watch. 

Bogota vs Immaculate Heart

The match was supposed to be last weekend but it ended up being pushed back and this is a rematch we have all been waiting for has finally arrived in the Bergen County Tournament as Bogota and Immaculate Heart will square-off for the second time this season. The teams faced each other in their season opener with Immaculate Heart winning convincingly in straight sets. However, this is a different Bogota squad than from the beginning of the year, can they push it to a third or even pull of the upset? 

Players to Watch: Gyanna Hernandez (Bogota; OH), Kalena Stavish (Immaculate Heart; S)

Westfield vs Kent Place

Many may overlook this matchup in the UCC final as Kent Place are unbeaten and the clear favorites in this matchup. But in order to be the best, you have to beat the team that has run the conference and that is Westfield. Don’t be surprised if Kent Place gets pushed to go the distance because Westfield won’t yield the crown so easily and it’s hard to beat the same squad three times. 

Players to Watch: Iman Handy Iman Handy 5'11" | OH Kent Place | 2022 State NJ (Kent Place; OH), Carly Rodrigues (Westfield; S)

Roxbury vs Jefferson

The final tournament matchup that is a must-watch in my opinion is Jefferson vs Roxbury in the Morris County Semifinals on Saturday. Jefferson is rolling as they have won ten in a row highlighted by a massive upset over Wayne Valley. On the other side, you have a Roxbury squad that have won four straight after a defeat to Demarest which isn’t anything to worry about, so they’ve won six of seven. Two of the best setters in the state will faceoff which ever one can control the game the best will lead their team to victory. 

Players to Watch: Emily Carcich Emily Carcich 5'7" | S Jefferson | 2022 State NJ (Jefferson; S), Lorie Horta Lorie Horta S Roxbury | 2023 State NJ (Roxbury; S)