The Indiana high school volleyball season is in full swing, and the rankings are set for the top teams in Central Indiana. The season promises to be an exciting one, with several teams vying for the top spots. Here's a breakdown of the top 15 teams, with commentary and analysis from an expert perspective.
Westfield (26-2, 4A regional champions): The Rocks are a force to be reckoned with, led by middle hitter Carsyn Comer, who is arguably the most terminal hitter in the state. Her continued progression will be key for an offense that's replacing two outsides. Westfield's biggest challenge will be consistency on its side of the net.
Plainfield (29-6, 4A state runner-up): The Quakers are replacing three starters, but their attack has potential with the tandem of UCLA commit Audrey Utterback and Northern Illinois commit Marley VanWanzeele on the pins. The defense will be anchored by Evie Ellis, who had 272 digs and a team-leading 59 aces as a freshman.
Center Grove (26-10, 4A sectional champion): The Trojans have one of the best setters in the state, senior Anabelle Schembra, and surround her with an arsenal of experienced attackers. Among the returners is Gabby Gilliard, a hard-swinging, high-flying sophomore who put down 410 kills on .227 hitting in her debut campaign.
Tri-West (24-13, 3A semistate runner-up): Brownsburg transfer Tatum Hatch will replace Queens freshman Grace Hargis at setter. The Bruins have the pieces to challenge for a third consecutive semistate finals appearance.
Hamilton Southeastern (29-4, 4A): The Royals are in an interesting spot, having graduated five key seniors. The development of the rest of the roster will largely determine HSE's fortunes this fall.
Cathedral (23-10, 3A sectional champions): Staying healthy will be critical to the Irish's fortunes. They have a new setter and new libero, but the primary players on the pins and in the middle are all returners.
Roncalli (33-5, 3A state champions): On paper, this should be a rebuilding year for the two-time defending 3A state champions. They graduated eight college players, but the defense will remain an absolute menace.
Brownsburg (17-8, 4A): One of the biggest threats to Plainfield's quest for a return to Gainbridge is in its sectional. The Bulldogs don't have a ton of experience, but coach Katie Maples is excited about the strides in skill her players took over the offseason.
Franklin Central (21-11, 4A): The Flashes are built to challenge Center Grove and Roncalli in sectionals. They are especially deep defensively, returning three key players.
Guerin Catholic (20-8, 3A): The Golden Eagles graduated a starting outside hitter and libero, but they return everyone else and should be brimming with both experience and confidence.
Hamilton Heights (23-9, 3A regional champions): With six seniors returning, including Marshall-bound libero Addie Doak, the Huskies have a solid, experienced base to build upon.
Carmel (16-14, 4A): The Greyhounds took massive strides in their two seasons under Jonni Parker and sustained that momentum through the offseason with new coach Kati Weir.
Lebanon (18-12, 3A): The Tigers' 18 wins last season were their most since 2015. They're eager for the opportunity to take the next step under first-year coach Sarah Chastain.
Triton Central (25-9, semistate runner-up): Sophomore Ava Kemper is stepping in as the new setter. The Tigers will be breaking in a new setter but have some powerful attackers.
Franklin (25-8, 4A sectional champions): The Grizzly Cubs graduated their two leading attackers, but first-year coach Nathan Bonham inherits a lineup that's tall, physical, and fast.
