Senior hoops standout starts season, inks letter

HUNTLEY — Huntley senior Anna Campanelli made her college selection choice of Kent State University official as she signed a letter of intent to attend the Kent, Ohio school and play basketball.

The signing day took place the same week as Huntley kicked off its 2024-25 season against Hononegah Nov. 19. Campanelli led the Red Raiders with 14 points in a 36-28 win over the Indians.

HHS head coach Steve Raethz summed up the effort Campanelli has shown the past three seasons.

“From the first day you joined our varsity team as a freshman, you stood out – not just for your skill, but for your work ethic, your dedication and your passion,” Raethz said. “You have led by example, inspiring your teammates and showing what it means to work hard and compete day in and day out. Your commitment has made you the player you are today and I know that commitment will continue to carry you as you take this next step in playing at Kent State.”

Campanelli averaged 14.7 points, 4.7 rebounds, 3.5 assists and 2.5 steals a game last season. She won All-Fox Valley Conference and Illinois Basketball Coaches Association All-State Special Mention honors.

“Obviously the goal this year is to win the FVC again and go farther than last year. We’re a young team this season, and we should be able to do a lot of good,” Campanelli said.

Campanelli and her sister Sammi, daughters of Josh and Leah, advanced to the college ranks, as Sammi is a sophomore on the Lewis University women’s hoops team. Kent State University, a D-1 school, competes in the Mid-American Conference.

“Campanelli is a reflection of the family’s support and values, and I know that I speak on behalf of all of our coaches when I say it’s been an honor to coach her,” Raethz said.

“Anna, you’re not only a talented athlete and basketball player but you are an even better person off the floor and Kent State is so fortunate to have you be a part of their program. Thank you for everything you’ve given to our team and program will be cheering you on every step of the way next year,” Raethz said.

Season starts

In addition to Campanelli’s 14 points, senior Paula Strzelecki added seven in the defensive-minded, 36-28 win over Hononegah Nov. 19. The game was part of the Dundee-Crown Thanksgiving tournament.

“It wasn’t a perfect game, being the opener, but we played with a lot of effort and energy against a very good Hononegah team,” Raethz said. “We played good defense and did what we needed to do to win. We were very good at the end of the second and third quarters to take the lead.”

Huntley led by four points midway through the third quarter, then a three-pointer by sophomore Lana Hobday extended the lead to 11, 31-20 after three quarters.

The HHS team leaders, in addition to seniors Campanelli and Strzelecki, Isabella Boskey, Ava McFadden and Madison Diaz.