Volleyball squad nets regional title

HUNTLEY — Huntley’s volleyball team will take the momentum of a six-match win streak, 16 of 18 recent wins, and a regional crown to McHenry sectional semifinal action against Mundelein.

HHS topped Rokford Guilford, 25-19, 25-16 for the Machesney Park Harlem regional Oct. 31, the Red Raiders’ eighth straight regional title.

Huntley advanced to the McHenry Class 4A sectional, facing Mundelein at 6 p.m., Nov. 5. HHS brings a 29-8 overall record to the sectional. The other sectional semifinal is Libertyville against Hampshire. The winners go onto the sectional final is at 6 p.m., Nov. 7 at McHenry.

“The girls came out focused and executed the game plan I thought really well,” Huntley coach Karen Naymola said of the win over Rockford Guilford.

Alex Goritz led the defense with 12 digs and added two assists.

“Goritz has been a very consistent, reliable defender for us and has taken control on defense,” Naymola said.

The offense was a varied one, set up by Emily Ernst’s 12 assists and Rachel Hein had 11. Sienna Robertson tallied eight kills and two blocks. Georgia Watson contributed seven kills, two blocks, eight digs and two aces. Also, Diellza Sejdini pitched in four kills, two blocks and five digs. Jocyln Erling had five kills and four blocks.

“Offense was all contributing and making great shots and finding ways to score,” Naymola said.

The Red Raiders will battle Mundelein, 24-13 record, who upset Warren Township in straight sets for its regional title. It is the first time since 2009-10 for a Mustangs’ sectional qualifier. Huntley downed Mundelein in their earlier meeting, 2-0, at the Red Raiders’ tournament Oct. 12. Mundelein came into the sectional with five straight wins.

“I think the Mundelein matchup is going to be a good game,” Naymola said. “They’re very scrappy. They play hard. Hopefully we exploit some of their weaknesses and execute on our strengths.”