The Syracuse, N.Y. volleyball scene is alive and buzzing this winter, with the Section III girls volleyball teams battling it out in a thrilling season full of surprises and standout performances. Week 3’s rankings bring fresh drama, particularly in Class B, where major shifts have reshaped the hierarchy of contenders. Let’s dive into the highlights, analyze the rankings, and spotlight the teams making waves as the season intensifies.
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Class B Gets a Major Shakeup: Chittenango Soars
The headline of this week’s rankings is the dramatic rise of Chittenango, now claiming the No. 3 spot. Their ascent follows a decisive victory over previously ranked Canastota, signaling their readiness to challenge the top-tier teams. Mark DiOrio’s snapshot of Chittenango’s triumph tells the story of a team that’s finding its stride at the perfect time.
“Our girls showed incredible determination and focus against Canastota,” said Chittenango’s head coach, praising the team’s efforts. “It’s about believing in our system and executing under pressure.”
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This pivotal win showcased Chittenango’s balanced approach, blending strong defensive plays with aggressive offense. Star outside hitter Emma Jennings led the charge with 18 kills, while libero Grace Carter anchored the backline with 24 digs, thwarting Canastota’s offensive efforts.
Class AA: Powerhouses Hold Their Ground
In Class AA, the top teams remain steadfast. Baldwinsville retains its commanding No. 1 position, continuing its unbeaten streak with another dominant performance last week. With a roster stacked with talent, including setter Mia Thompson and middle blocker Ava Grant, Baldwinsville has established itself as the team to beat. Their fast-paced playstyle and seamless coordination have kept opponents on their heels.
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Liverpool, sitting at No. 2, also showed their strength, overcoming a tough Fayetteville-Manlius squad. Liverpool’s cohesion and versatility were on full display, as opposite hitter Jenna Morales notched 14 kills, and setter Sophie Ellis distributed 35 assists in their latest match. The battle between Liverpool and Baldwinsville later this season promises to be a marquee showdown.
Class A Rankings Shift: Fulton Rising, Central Square Struggling
Class A remains competitive, with Fulton continuing its steady rise. Their recent victory over Central Square highlighted their improvement, driven by standout performances from senior captain Lily Reynolds and sophomore sensation Ava Simmons. Fulton’s discipline and precision have allowed them to capitalize on opponents’ mistakes while minimizing their own.
Conversely, Central Square has slipped in the rankings after back-to-back losses. Injuries to key players and inconsistent play have plagued the team, but head coach Lauren Davis remains optimistic. “This group is resilient. We’ll work through our challenges and come back stronger,” she said.
Class C and D: Underdogs Shine Bright
Class C’s rankings saw South Jefferson continue to dominate, holding firm at No. 1. Their relentless energy and depth make them a formidable opponent, as evidenced by their latest sweep of General Brown. South Jefferson’s hitters, led by senior Sarah Collins, have been a nightmare for blockers all season.
However, it’s the underdogs in Class C and D that have captured attention. Tully, a smaller program, has been on a tear, climbing to No. 4 in Class C after a series of hard-fought wins. In Class D, Hamilton’s Cinderella story continues, as they broke into the top five for the first time this season. Both teams embody the grit and determination that make Section III volleyball so compelling.
Standout Players Making Headlines
The season has also highlighted individual talents who are making their mark. Emma Jennings from Chittenango has been a key player to watch, with her powerful spikes and unmatched court awareness helping Chittenango aim for further success. Mia Thompson of Baldwinsville continues to impress as a senior setter, with her ability to read the game and deliver pinpoint sets keeping Baldwinsville’s offense humming. Lily Reynolds from Fulton has been instrumental in her team’s rise, providing leadership and clutch performances throughout the season. Meanwhile, Sarah Collins of South Jefferson has anchored her team’s dominance in Class C as a consistent scorer and blocker.
Upcoming Matches to Watch
As the season progresses, several matches stand out as must-watch events. Baldwinsville and Liverpool’s clash on January 5 promises to be a dramatic showdown between Class AA titans that could significantly impact the rankings. On January 8, Fulton faces Central Square in a crucial match to see if Central Square can rebound or if Fulton will continue its impressive ascent. January 10 will feature South Jefferson and Tully in Class C, testing both teams as Tully looks to prove they belong among the elite.
The Importance of Rankings
The rankings serve as a snapshot of where teams stand, but they’re also a testament to the dedication of the players, coaches, and communities. Volleyball in Section III is more than just a sport; it’s a source of pride and camaraderie, bringing schools and fans together. The ups and downs of the rankings reflect the dynamic nature of competition and the unpredictable excitement that each week brings.
Final Takeaways: The Road Ahead
With the season nearing its midpoint, every game becomes crucial. Teams will need to dig deep, refine their strategies, and push through adversity to achieve their goals. Whether it’s the dominance of Baldwinsville, the resilience of Chittenango, or the rise of underdogs like Tully and Hamilton, the storylines this season are captivating.
Stay tuned as we continue to cover all the action, unveiling new rankings every Wednesday until the end of sectionals. Who will emerge as champions? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: Section III girls volleyball is delivering drama, talent, and unforgettable moments.
