The opening week of the 2025 New Jersey girls volleyball season delivered thrilling matchups across multiple conferences, with established programs flexing their muscles and newcomers making statements. Here’s a breakdown of some of the standout games from the first week of play that showcased the talent and competitive spirit defining this season.
Paul VI Dominates Cherokee in Olympic Conference Showdown
Paul VI (2-0) made a powerful statement with a commanding 2-0 sweep over Cherokee (1-2) in straight sets, 25-21, 25-15. The Eagles’ balanced attack proved too much for the Chiefs to handle. Megan Evans led the charge for Paul VI with 6 kills and an impressive 3 blocks, establishing herself as a force at the net. The Eagles’ offensive depth shined through with Maggie Carcillo orchestrating the attack with 9 assists while contributing 4 kills of her own. The serving game was particularly devastating, as Paul VI racked up 12 aces compared to Cherokee’s 4, with Carcillo, Brynn Casmay, and Lyla Rossi each contributing 3 aces. Cherokee fought valiantly behind Kim Moncrief’s 5 kills and Addie Lore’s versatile performance of 2 kills, 2 blocks, and a team-high 10 assists. However, the Chiefs couldn’t overcome Paul VI’s relentless pressure and superior execution in crucial moments.
Princeton Continues Perfect Start Against West Windsor-Plainsboro South
Defending State Champion Princeton is 3-0 and started the season with an emphatic 2-0 victory over West Windsor-Plainsboro South (1-2), winning 25-14, 25-11 in a BCSL-CVC conference matchup. Naomi Lygas was absolutely unstoppable for Princeton, hammering down 12 kills while adding 5 digs to anchor both the offensive and defensive efforts. Kaelin Bobetich ran the offense to perfection with 15 assists and contributed 3 kills and 2 aces. The Tigers’ depth was evident as they spread the wealth with Carmen Barbosa and Charlotte Woods each adding 4 kills. West Windsor-Plainsboro South struggled to find offensive rhythm, managing just 7 kills as a team. Nicole Ezefili provided the lone bright spot with 2 kills and a block, while Pranavi Pamireddy distributed 5 assists.
Verona Makes Statement with Dominant Win Over Montville
Verona begins the season with 3 big wins and announced their arrival as a serious SEC-American contender on their opening night with a convincing 2-0 victory over Montville, taking both sets 25-13 and 25-15. Brynn Mack put on an absolute clinic, crushing 17 kills while adding 7 digs and 2 aces in a dominant all-around performance. Samantha Heimall was the perfect complement, facilitating the offense with 24 assists while serving up 2 aces. The Hillbillies’ balanced attack featured contributions from Julie Maglifiore (4 kills) and Abigail Romanyshyn (2 kills). Montville’s bright spots came from Kayla Aikens, who managed 2 kills and an impressive 5 blocks, and Julia Cannilla, who distributed 6 assists while adding 2 blocks of her own.
Westfield Edges Gov. Livingston in Union County Thriller
In a very competitive match for the early season, Westfield (2-0) opened their 25 schedule on Wednesday and escaped with a hard-fought 2-0 victory over Gov. Livingston (1-1) by the narrowest of margins, 26-24, 25-22. This match showcased two evenly matched Union County powers trading blows throughout. Gov. Livingston’s Abby Kim led all scorers with 12 kills and 6 digs, while Sierra Isbirian orchestrated the offense with 16 assists. The Highlanders showed tremendous heart, pushing Westfield to the limit in both sets. Westfield’s balanced attack proved decisive, with Ava Gaspard contributing 10 kills and Emelia Dengler adding 14 assists and 9 digs. The Blue Devils’ depth was crucial as five different players recorded kills, demonstrating the team chemistry that makes them dangerous.
Summit Survives Three-Set Battle with Scotch Plains-Fanwood
Summit (2-1) showed championship mettle by bouncing back from a second-set loss to defeat Scotch Plains-Fanwood (0-2) in three sets, 27-25, 18-25, 25-23, in an instant UCC-Watchung classic. Molly Devaney powered Summit’s comeback with 11 kills, while MacKenna Welsh was phenomenal with 27 assists and 6 kills of her own. The Hilltoppers’ serving attack was relentless, recording 8 aces with Ayina Colon contributing 3. Scotch Plains-Fanwood refused to go quietly, with DJ Ngumah putting up 8 kills and 3 blocks in a warrior-like effort. Isabelle Stewart kept the Raiders competitive with 15 assists and 6 aces, while the team’s scrappy defense recorded 37 digs.
Shore Conference Showcases
Holmdel Rolls Past Marlboro
Holmdel has had a perfect start with three big wins, the first of which was dominant 2-0 victory over Marlboro (0-1), winning 25-8, 25-19. Jessica Donnelly was unstoppable with 9 kills and 5 aces, while Brooke Lavell orchestrated the offense with 21 assists and added 7 aces of her own.
Southern Defeats Howell in Shore Showdown
Southern (1-0) opened their season in style with a 2-0 victory over Howell (1-1), 25-19, 25-20. Kayden Bulger dominated with 13 kills and 4 aces, while Lauren Ambar was masterful with 25 assists. The Rams’ balanced attack and strong serving (8 aces) proved too much for Howell to handle.
Toms River South Rallies Past Donovan Catholic
In a thrilling three-set battle, Toms River South (1-1) came from behind to defeat Donovan Catholic (1-2) with scores of 20-25, 25-21, 25-21. The Indians showed tremendous resilience, overcoming a first-set loss behind strong defensive play (47 digs) and Melanie Pinales’ outstanding performance of 7 kills and 6 blocks. Full story at https://njpowerranking.com/2025/09/04/toms-river-south-rallies-for-thrilling-season-opening-victory-over-donovan-catholic/
Union Catholic with Commanding Win Over Summit
Union Catholic with a dominant 2-0 victory over Summit, winning 25-22, 25-15 in a crucial UCC-Watchung Division showdown. The Vikings showcased their depth and resilience with a balanced offensive attack. Alex Landazabal led the way with 4 kills and 6 assists, while Alyssa Kenol provided the defensive foundation with 4 blocks and 3 aces. Sabrina Capati contributed 3 kills and 4 assists, demonstrating the versatility that makes Union Catholic dangerous. The Vikings’ serving attack was particularly effective, recording 10 aces as a team with Maria Gialanella contributing 4. Summit couldn’t replicate their earlier heroics, managing just 12 kills and 2 blocks as a team. MacKenna Welsh tried to keep the Hilltoppers competitive with 12 assists, while Molly Devaney added 3 kills and 3 aces in the losing effort.
Elizabeth Takes Down Scotch Plains-Fanwood Behind Dominant Defense
Elizabeth (1-0) opened their season with a 2-0 victory over Scotch Plains-Fanwood (0-3), winning 25-22, 25-15. The Minutemen’s defensive effort was the story of the match, recording an incredible 64 digs compared to Scotch Plains-Fanwood’s 37. Emily Viera-Gomez was absolutely spectacular in the back row for Elizabeth, tallying 21 digs in just two sets. Diana Perez provided the offensive firepower with 5 kills, while Karla Duarte contributed 4 kills and 12 digs in an outstanding all-around performance. Isabella Rossi orchestrated the offense with 14 assists. Scotch Plains-Fanwood struggled to find their rhythm offensively, with DJ Ngumah leading the way with 5 kills and 2 blocks. The Raiders’ frustration was evident as they managed just 18 kills as a team while Elizabeth’s defense kept them off balance throughout.
Hillsborough Rallies for Thrilling Three-Set Victory Over North Hunterdon
Hillsborough (1-0) opened their season in dramatic fashion, overcoming a slow start to defeat North Hunterdon (0-1) in three sets, 25-15, 28-30, 25-12. The Raiders showed tremendous character after dropping a heartbreaking second set. Abigail Fenton was the catalyst for Hillsborough’s victory, recording 9 kills and 8 digs while adding crucial blocks. Sophia Baraniecki dominated at the service line with 5 aces and contributed 7 kills, while Cynthia Lei was the floor general with 25 assists and 3 aces. The Raiders’ serving attack was relentless, recording 11 aces as a team. North Hunterdon fought valiantly behind Eva Liu’s exceptional playmaking (10 assists) and Kiersten Boyer’s 8 assists. Keegan Hissner led the offensive charge with 5 kills, but the Lions couldn’t maintain their second-set momentum against Hillsborough’s persistent pressure. The match featured incredible drama, with North Hunterdon rallying before Hillsborough regrouped to dominate the final frame. The game marked the return of Aileen Xue to the hardcourt after a car accident that caused her to miss an entire year of school and volleyball. Full story on Aileen’s return at https://njpowerranking.com/2025/08/31/unbreakable-aileen-xues-testament-to-the-power-of-human-spirit/
Rutherford Rallies for Impressive Three-Set Victory Over Lyndhurst
Rutherford (2-0) has had a perfect start to the season and pulled off a thrilling 2-1 comeback victory over Lyndhurst (1-1) in an NJIC Colonial vs. Meadowlands crossover matchup, winning 20-25, 25-19, 25-10 on Friday afternoon. After dropping the opening set, Rutherford showed tremendous resilience and composure to completely turn the match around. The Bulldogs’ ability to regroup and dominate the final two sets demonstrated the championship mentality that makes them a team to watch this season. Mackenzie Vietto was absolutely dominant for Rutherford, leading the comeback with 17 kills while adding 5 digs and 3 aces. Her offensive firepower proved to be the difference-maker once the Bulldogs found their rhythm. Cate Finan provided exceptional court vision with 25 assists, expertly distributing the ball and keeping Lyndhurst’s defense off balance. The Bulldogs’ serving attack was relentless, recording 13 aces as a team, with Payton Lewis contributing 5 and Mia George adding 3. Lyndhurst started strong behind Sofia Hechavarria’s outstanding performance of 11 kills and 2 blocks, supported by Madison Herman’s 21 assists. The Golden Bears showed they belonged on the court with the undefeated Bulldogs, particularly in that dominant first set. However, they couldn’t maintain their early momentum as Rutherford’s experience and depth began to show. The match was a tale of two halves – Lyndhurst controlled the first set with crisp passing and effective attacking, but Rutherford’s adjustments and superior conditioning became evident as they outscored the Golden Bears 50-29 over the final two sets. The Bulldogs’ defensive effort improved dramatically, recording 43 digs compared to Lyndhurst’s 49, while their offensive efficiency skyrocketed in the later sets. This victory showcases Rutherford’s maturity as a program – the ability to overcome adversity and execute when it matters most. For Lyndhurst, despite the loss, there were plenty of positives to build on, particularly Hechavarria’s emergence as a legitimate offensive threat.
Northern Highlands Rallies for Four-Set Victory Over Bergen Tech
Northern Highlands (1-0) opened their season in spectacular fashion with a thrilling 3-1 comeback victory over Bergen Tech (1-1) in a Big North Liberty vs. Freedom division showdown, winning 23-25, 25-22, 25-14, 25-17 on Friday afternoon. After dropping a tight opening set, Northern Highlands showcased the heart of champions by winning three consecutive sets to claim victory. The Highlanders’ ability to adjust and execute under pressure was evident as they completely dominated the final two sets, outscoring Bergen Tech 50-31. Northern Highlands displayed incredible depth and balance throughout their lineup. Allie Reilly orchestrated the offense beautifully with 18 assists while contributing defensively with 10 digs. The Highlanders’ attacking was well-distributed, with Hannah Liberante leading the way with 8 kills, while Ava Gagliano added 3 kills and 3 blocks, and Lily Pocincih contributed 8 kills along with an impressive 18 digs and 5 aces. The defensive effort was truly remarkable, as Northern Highlands recorded 78 digs as a team – a testament to their hustle and determination. Georgia Cacciabudo anchored the back row with 14 digs, while the team’s serving attack was relentless with 16 aces, showcasing their ability to pressure opponents from the service line. Bergen Tech fought valiantly in that opening set but couldn’t maintain their momentum against Northern Highlands’ persistent pressure and superior conditioning. The stats show Bergen Tech’s struggles, as they were unable to generate consistent offensive production once the Highlanders found their rhythm. This victory demonstrates Northern Highlands’ potential as a serious contender in the competitive Big North conference. Their ability to bounce back from adversity and finish strong suggests this team has the mental toughness needed for a successful campaign. The combination of balanced scoring, exceptional defense, and clutch serving makes them a dangerous opponent for any team on their schedule.
River Dell Opens Season with Dominant Sweep of Ridgewood
River Dell (1-0) made an emphatic statement in their season opener, blanking Ridgewood (0-1) with a commanding 2-0 victory, 25-12, 25-15, in Big North divisional play on Friday. The Golden Hawks controlled every aspect of the match, showcasing the depth and talent that makes them a formidable opponent. Marissa Petrocelli led the balanced attack with 8 kills and 2 blocks, while Kailyn Murray-McCormick contributed 4 kills. Kai Greble was exceptional from the setter position, distributing 21 assists while adding 3 digs and an ace. River Dell’s defensive effort was equally impressive, recording 38 digs compared to Ridgewood’s 36, while their serving attack produced 7 aces. The Golden Hawks never allowed Ridgewood to find any offensive rhythm, holding them to just 12 kills across two sets. Ridgewood struggled to generate consistent offense against River Dell’s relentless pressure. Saige Rogers led the Maroons with 4 kills, while Parker Langtein added 6 assists, but it wasn’t nearly enough to challenge the Golden Hawks’ dominance. The lopsided scoreline reflects River Dell’s superior execution and team chemistry as they begin what could be a special season in the competitive Big North conference.
Ridge Cruises Past Linden in Skyland Valley Victory
Ridge (2-0) continued their perfect start with a commanding 2-0 sweep of Linden (0-2), winning 25-16, 25-13 in Skyland Valley conference action on Friday. The Red Devils dominated from start to finish behind Isabella Cinelli’s exceptional floor leadership, recording 17 assists while anchoring the defense with 6 digs. Kira Barrett provided the offensive punch with 4 kills, while Ridge’s balanced attack and strong serving (11 aces) kept Linden off balance throughout. Linden struggled to find any offensive rhythm, managing just 7 kills as a team. The Tigers showed defensive effort with 30 digs but couldn’t generate enough attack to challenge Ridge’s control of the match. The lopsided scores reflect Ridge’s early-season form as they establish themselves as a force in the competitive Skyland Valley division.
Player Make-up
2,122 players have stats thus far after the first week. 940 seniors, 709 juniors, 323 soph, and 101 freshman. 48 do not have grad years entered. 44% seniors, 33% juniors, 15% sophomores, and 5% freshman.