Stacked contests impact Cincinnati girls volleyball power rankings

The weekend of September 29 saw some of the most competitive volleyball matches in Greater Cincinnati, acting as previews for postseason play. As the regular season's final weeks approach, the top area teams' power rankings have been updated. Harrison, Milford, Mount Notre Dame, Mason, Ross, Sycamore, Springboro, Goshen, Taylor, Ryle, and Bishop Brossart are currently leading the ranks.

St. Ursula Bulldogs, with a 10-8 record, are ranked 10th. Although they have a full roster, the team is still looking for a standout victory. Following a month of league play, the Bulldogs will have ample rest before entering the postseason. Their upcoming matches include games against Mercy McAuley and Sycamore.

St. Henry Crusaders, ranked 9th with a 19-6 record, had their six-game winning streak halted by a loss to Beechwood. However, they are now the second Bluegrass school to defeat nationally ranked Assumption. The Crusaders aim to avenge their loss to Beechwood and secure a spot in the postseason race. Their next games are against Lloyd Memorial and Beechwood.

Notre Dame Pandas, at 9th with a 14-6 record, have gone 9 games without a loss in the past three weeks. Despite participating in another high-level tournament, the Pandas show no signs of backing down from any opponent. They have matches scheduled against Marist, ASICS Challenge, and Holmes.

CHCA Eagles, ranked 7th with a 15-2 record, continue to accumulate impressive road wins. Their upcoming matches against Mt. Healthy and Mt. Healthy will prepare them for the postseason, as they continue to prove their place as one of the top regions in Ohio.

Kings Knights, ranked 6th with a 12-3 record, will face Milford on October 1 in a crucial Eastern Cincinnati Conference title match. Defense at the net will be key in this showdown. The Knights have a deep rotation of hitters, and avoiding mistakes will be vital for momentum heading into the final two weeks of the regular season.

Ursuline Lions, ranked 5th with a 10-4-5 record, have nine wins this season during winning streaks. If they can maintain another winning streak against teams like Fenwick, Springboro, McNicholas, Milford, and St. Henry, they could be a major contender in the postseason. Their next games include matches against Fenwick and Springboro.

Beechwood Tigers, at 4th with a 21-2 record, suffered a loss to Seton but rebounded with a strong victory against Bishop Brossart. The Tigers have four high-profile matches left in the regular season and made history with various achievements. Their upcoming games include matches against St. Henry and North Oldham.

Fenwick Falcons, ranked 3rd with a 15-2 record, are hoping to dismiss their loss to CHCA as just a minor setback. With five more challenging non-league games ahead, the Falcons have the talent to roll into the postseason.

McNicholas Rockets, at 2nd with a 14-1 record, had an easy weekend of league wins. They can secure a share of the Greater Catholic League-Coed title with a victory over Badin. Their next games include matches against Badin and Anderson.

Seton Saints, ranked 1st with a 17-0 record, dropped their first set of the season against St. Ursula but quickly bounced back with a sweep of Beechwood. As the regular season winds down, all eyes will be on their postseason finale against McNicholas on October 14.