Cathedral's Hanchar leads team with 300 kills

Caroline Hanchar has recorded more than 300 kills this season. The Cathedral girls' volleyball senior also ranks second on her squad in digs. Her performance anchors a team currently riding a 24-10 record.

Hanchar serves as both a defensive specialist and an outside hitter for the Fighting Irish. She is managing a foot injury that will require surgery after the season ends. The player has competed in every match of the year while dealing with the physical condition.

The team secured its first regional title in ten years last weekend. That victory sets up a push for a state championship. Hanchar said she could not give up this final opportunity to compete with her teammates.

"All the girls, we're all really close, and there's no drama on our team," Hanchar said. "We all want it for each other. None of us are selfish, we all want it for each other, and we work super hard at practice and during games to make each other better."

Head coach Karrie Quenichet attributes the team's energy to Hanchar's dedication. Quenichet noted that many athletes experience mental and physical burnout from playing year-round. Hanchar plays with a level of enjoyment that spreads to the rest of the group.

"Caroline's such a fun player because she truly plays for her love of the game," Quenichet said. "I think nowadays with kids playing year-round, a lot of times they start to feel some physical burnout, some mental burnout. She's a player that plays because she loves the game of volleyball and that energy spreads to the rest of the group."

The Fighting Irish face Batesville this Saturday, October 31. A win will earn the team a spot in the semi-state tournament. Hanchar described a deep run as a special goal for the group.