Defense leads Benet to volleyball title

Riley captures MVP honors

It was fitting that the most valuable player in the Benet girls volleyball invitational was the libero, because at the end of the day, it was the defense that carried the Redwings.

Senior Brianne Riley was chosen as the MVP for her consistent play throughout the weekend, but the example she set was infectious because the Redwings defense was outstanding in a close three-set 25-20, 22-25, 25-19 win over York in the finals, which gave the hosts their second straight tournament championship.

"Both teams played well," Benet coach Brad Baker said. "It was mostly back-and-forth throughout the match, but we were able to play a little better down the stretch and get it done. Our defense at the end gave us more opportunities to put balls away. Bri was great for us the whole tournament."

Baker was impressed by the team's energy and communication on the court the entire weekend (three matches on Friday and two on Saturday).

Riley, who is one of only three starters back from last year's state finalists, is impressed by how this team, which features many juniors and a pair of sophomores, has improved this year.

"We had such a powerful team last year, but we had all played together for a year," Riley said. "This year we started off with a whole new slate and it's amazing to see how much better we've gotten since the beginning of the season. We're really gelling as a team. In a way, it's more rewarding to see this team develop."

Baker thought the team's transition game in the first set against Waubonsie Valley in the semifinal win (25-13, 25-20) was an example of the Redwings (24-2) at their best.

"We had some longs runs and we were able to consistently score points," Baker said.

Waubonsie finished in fourth place in the tournament after losing 23-25, 25-19, 25-21 to Hinsdale Central in the third-place game.

The Warriors defensive specialist Jill Galovic was named to the all-tournament team.