vikingssportsn The Hopewell Junior Varsity volleyball team enters the 2026 season tonight with a young roster, but Coach Kallan Parker believes a strong sophomore core combined with a talented freshman class has the Vikings positioned for another successful season.
“The development I have seen in the sophomore class combined with the talent of the freshman class has me very excited for the upcoming season,” Parkers tells Vikings Sports Now. “Our biggest adversity as a team is going to be the lack of experience, with the return of only one full-time starter from last season.”
That returning starter is sophomore captain Abigail Babinsack (MH), who will be joined by fellow captain Liliana Katcher (L) and Lillian Otto (OH) in leading the young Vikings.
Parker expects defense to be one of Hopewell’s strengths, with Katcher leading a sophomore class that features several defensive-minded players. Babinsack and Otto will provide experience and leadership in the front row as Hopewell works several freshmen into key roles.
“Our team is full of grit, determination and motivation that I think will carry them far,” Parker said.
Among the newcomers, Parker identified Alyssa Phillips (OH) and Brooke Otto (S) as two freshmen to watch, while noting that the entire freshman class has shown promise.
Hopewell will be tested by a new volleyball alignment that expands the sport from four to six classifications and is expected to bring tougher section competition.
“We expect tougher competition in our section this year,” Parker said. “I am interested and excited to see how that plays out.”
They will get their first chance tonight vs Blackhawk at the High School. The JV Match starts at 6:00 PM, followed immediately by the Varsity, likely around 7:30 PM.
Hopewell Junior Varsity Volleyball Roster:
Sophomores — Abigail Babinsack, Liliana Katcher, Lillian Otto, Ava Ray, Geanna Disantis, Gianna Rossi, Bella Cipolla and Sophia Catanzarite.
Freshmen — Alyssa Phillips, Brooke Otto, Samantha Holsinger, Ellie McCoy, Lily Cain and Kelsey Homick.
