By STEPHEN MARTELLUCCI
NORTH READING — The North Reading High volleyball team entered the 2023 campaign as one of the lesser experienced teams in the Cape Ann League. They ended up missing the Division 3 state tournament by three slots as they finished ranked 35th by the MIAA power rankings.
North Reading ended the year at 6-14 overall and 5-11 in the Cape Ann League.
The team was led by Kaitlin Murnane as the senior middle hitter was the team leader in digs (131), service aces (62) and blocks (13).
“She was our most productive player,” said Hornets head coach Mike Milone. “She was second in kills last year and she stepped forward with her defense and her receiving.”
Sami Mutti was the Hornets leader in kills with 114.
“She is a quiet player and I am really glad that I have her for one more year,” said Milone, about the junior middle-hitter.
The assists leader was junior Madison Hopfer who had 211.
“Last year we had two setters,” pointed out Milone. “This year she was the main setter and her defense came along.”
Milone feels that Hopfer will only get better when she is a senior next year.
Behind Hopfer in assists was Willow Koepke who had 145.
“To get 145 assists as a freshman is outstanding,” stated Milone, as Koepke played both setter and outside hitter this fall.
Next week, the Cape Ann League All-Star teams will be announced.