The Brinn 15: Week One, Division Two

1. Lima Bath
2. Kettering Archbishop Alter
3. Tipp City Tippecanoe
4. Hathaway Brown
5. Akron Hoban
6. Cuyahoga Falls Walsh Jesuit
7. Warsaw River View
8. Millersburg West Holmes
9. Akron SVSM
10. Indian Lake
11. Colonel Crawford
12. Salem
13. Bucyrus
14. Lexington
15. Miami Trace

The Brinn 15: Week One, Division One

1. Beavercreek
2. Lakota West
3. Pickerington North
4. Cincinnati Mt. Notre Dame
5. North Canton Hoover
6. Cincinnati Princeton
7. Anthony Wayne
8. Shaker Heights
9. Kettering Fairmont
10. Toledo Start
11. Dublin Scioto
12. Youngstown Boardman
13. Toledo Central Catholic
14. Vandalia Butler
15. Sylvania Northview

GIRLS' HOOPS COMING SOON!

So we are taking a break between seasons and doing our research on girls' basketball teams throughout the state of Ohio to bring you our unique brand of Ohio Girls' High School Sports! Our preseason CAPTAIN BRINN TOP 20 Rankings for girls' basketball will be posted before the season tips off next weekend. Watch for that. In the meantime, communicate with us about your favorite team, their players to watch, coaches, expectations, good games, etc.

EMAIL US at captainbrinn@gmail.com

JOIN THE SOCIAL COMMUNITY at http://cbohiovarsity.ning.com

CBOHIO VARSITY VOLLEYBALL HONORS

DI Coach of the Year--Dawn Moses, Olmsted Falls
DI Player of the Year--Lauren Whyte, Olmsted Falls

DII Coach of the Year--Tony Messina, Parma Padua Franciscan
DII Player of the Year--Kaitlyn Leary, Parma Padua Franciscan

DIII Coach of the Year--Bradd Jeffers, Albany Alexander
DIII Player of the Year--Kara Koch, Northwestern High

DIV Coach of the Year--Amy Steininger, Marion Local
DIV Player of the Year--Alyssa Winner, Marion Local

CHAMPIONS CROWNED

Here are our observations of a great weekend of Ohio High School Volleyball in Dayton this past weekend:

DIVISION ONE:
What a shocker it was to watch #1 Cincinnati Ursuline go down, and in the fashion they did. Ursuline embarrassed #3 Cincinnati Mt. Notre Dame in their semi-final and looked like a well-oiled machine. #2 Olmsted Falls easily handled #10 Brecksville-Broadview Heights in their semi-final, but that was no surprise. And, OF did not look they would be quite able to keep up with Ursuline based on their level of play in their semi. But the final was a classic, which began with an Ursuline rally that led to the longest single game in state tournament history, with OF pulling out a 39-37 win. The play of Olmsted's White was incredible to say the least, as well! She was dominant. It was strange to see a GGCL team turned on their heels. They were literally in shock after the match, as was most of the crowd, who had seen Cincy Catholic teams win the title every since 1998 except once in 2004.

DIVISION TWO:
#4 Parma Padua Franciscan was the deserving champion in the drama-free D2 division. The games were not that exciting, with Padua winning a four-gamer against #19 Alter. I thought #6 Columbus Bishop Hartley was a lot better than many gave them credit for and would have liked to have seen them push Alter to a fifth game in the semi-final, which should of happened before an Alter comeback. Mansfield Madison was disappointing, but they should be a contender next season. They were young and couldn't handle Padua's methodical, consistent level of play.

DIVISION THREE:
This division ended up being a complete surprise with the ease of #2 Albany Alexander winning the title. First they defeated #14 Versailles in three hotly-contested games in their semi-final and then easily handed #6 Gilmour Academy defeat in the D3 Championship match. The most excitement (or lack their of) came from Gilmour's incredible dominance of #1 Lima Central Catholic in the semi-finals.

DIVISION FOUR:
#2 Newark Catholic and #5 Marion Local had a classic back-and-forth semi-final match. Newark Catholic, though ranked higher than ML, had to be considered the underdog against the defending champions. They almost pulled it out, but fell 15-12 in the final game. For #1 Jackson Center, they advanced easily against #9 Buckeye Central, who has several young players with tremendous potential. While JC pulled out game one, Marion Local controlled the rest and claimed their second straight title. They also return nearly their entire team and are so young, we may see a new Hopewell-Loudon developing in D4.

BATTLE RAGING!

#1 Cincinnati Ursuline is getting all they can handle and more from the state's #2 D1 team Olmsted Falls. Game one was a classic, 40-minute back-and-forth that Olmsted pulled out 39-37. Ursuline won game two in easier fashion 25-16, but now Olmsted Falls has regained the momentum and captured game three 25-21! What a classic D1 match! We may see the GGCL and private schools' reign of D1 end today! Lots more volleyball to be played, however.

D2 Goes To Padua Franciscan

Alter had tradition going for them, but Parma Padua Franciscan has sheer talent and a better game plan that led it to its first state vollyeball championship today. Padua Franciscan won the Division 2 State Championship over Kettering Archbishop Alter 25-22, 26-24, 17-25, 25-21.

Division 3 coming up next!

TOURNEY TWEETS

If you need a way to stay updated with all the action from the state volleyball tournament starting tomorrow, Captain Brinn's people will be using Twitter to microblog updates throughout the event. Scores, observations, analysis...all in 140 characters or less! Don't know about Twitter? Well, over 5 million people have figured it out. It's easy. It's free. Here's what you need to do to follow our updates or "Tweets" as they are called:

Step #1-Visit http://twitter.com/captbrn

Step #2-Sign-up for a free Twitter profile and handle. It's real quick to do.

Step #3-Follow us. We are captbrn or @captbrn officially.

Step #4-Our tweets will be streamed via Twitter.

NEWARK CATHOLIC'S FORMULA FOR SUCCESS

Probably more than any other sport in the state of Ohio, volleyball has displayed dynastic qualities. From Cincinnati St. Ursula's incredible run of six straight D2 titles and two more in D1 in the course of a decade to the small-school powerhouses like Hopewell-Loudon (five titles in as many years) and St. Henry's six titles and dominant control of the Midwest Athletic Conference, Ohio High School Volleyball is all about the dynasties, those programs that perform year-after-year. One of the best known and most consistent is a small Catholic school in Newark, Ohio. From 1979-1984 Newark Catholic won five titles. They added three more in 1988, 1989, and 2004. On Friday, Newark Catholic will make their 13th state final four appearance and attempt to win their ninth volleyball crown. "I love coaching at Newark Catholic," said head coach Jeri Helfer. "I tell people all of the time from the outside looking in you can’t understand it, but from the inside looking out I can’t explain it. It is generations of Newark Catholic coming back to raise their kids here, and support the school and athletics. We have seven kids on our varsity roster whose parents graduated from NC. Every kid on our varsity team came up through the elementary schools. That’s building a family."
It's that family-focused, kids-first attitude that Helfer claims is the formula for such consistency of one of the state's finest volleyball programs. Helfer knows the formula well, having been a part of it as a player in high school. Her volleyball career took her from being a player in NC's program to a player at Capital University. Since her playing days, it has been coaching the game that has been a passion of hers.
"I was an assistant coach at Otterbein College for seven years, have been the head coach at NC for nine years, I coached JO’s at Westerville VBC for eight years, and started New Wave VBC eight years ago," offered Helfer.
Of course, for Helfer, her family and their support and inspiration helps foster a continued family atmosphere in Newark Catholic's program.
"My nine-year old niece, Megan, is about to be the ball girl at my fourth Final Four. My sister, and her mom, Joni, just finished coaching Megan in her first year of volleyball, and they won the championship! My mom comes to almost all of our games, and the kids just love Mama Helfer being around. My brother, Michael, is the men’s basketball coach at Valdosta State University in Georgia, so he and I text quite a bit back & forth about coaching challenges in general. He is my real sounding board. He’s just starting his season, but still hangs on to every match we have up here." Not only is Helfer's family heavily involved and supportive of her efforts in maintaining the excellence that has been presence within the Newark Catholic program since the 70's, but her coaching staff, some of which are part of NC's rich tradition, help keep the program going. "I couldn’t do this without great assistants. My varsity assistant, Ken Fehrman, brings so much to the table. He loves volleyball, and is always challenging me to think outside the box. He pushes the kids in practice, and they love the challenge. My JV coach, Stacey Smith, played at NC back in the day too, so she completely understands the philosophy of developing all the kids and does a great job with it. She helps me all summer long when we have morning lifting or open gyms. She is always there to help ease my burden I put on myself! Our freshmen coach, Joan Strawn, does so much for the kids. Her season has been finished for almost a month, and yet she’s busy this week with her team decorating varsity cars & bedrooms, making goodie bags, and helping feed the team. All of my assistants are amazing!" Newark Catholic has experienced much success in Helfer's tenure at the helm. Her teams boast a 183-39 record in nine seasons, including trips to state in 2004, 2005, 2007, and this year. In 2004 Newark Catholic won a five-game thriller in the semi-finals (17-15 in the fifth game) against Westfall and then beat Rocky River Lutheran West to claim NC's first state title since 1989. In 2005, the school moved to Division 4, returned to state where they lost a heartbreaker in the title game to Sidney Lehman Catholic. Last season, the program returned to the Division 4 Final Four, where they faced a dominant Marion Local squad and lost in three. This season, Helfer and her crew will seek to avenge that loss in a rematch with Marion Local in Friday's semi-final match, which will feature a Marion Local squad that lost most of their players from last year's championship squad. However, Helfer knows that the competition Marion Local faced all season has prepared them well. "I know they are very good again! They have been challenged every day in their league, so we can’t say their young anymore. They play great competition over there that prepares them for the state tourney all fall. They have the same tough defense as last year. They aren’t as tall, but they have some very solid young smart hitters," Helfer offered. "We are trying to fine tune everything this week. Making sure that we are all on the same page, and ready to play. We don’t have a 'horse' per se. We are very balanced, and that makes it more exciting. The team and parents are so focused on team success rather than any individual success it makes it great." For Newark Catholic's fans, getting to the state volleyball tournament is something of a ritual from year-to-year. It is the support of the parents and fans within the school district that Helfer counts on from year-to-year, and something she explains they will need when they face the Flyers on Friday. "We have outstanding fans beginning with our second row dads! They are so much fun," said Helfer. "Unfortunately, our football team didn’t make the playoffs this year, so that will bring even more NC faithful to the Nutter Center this year, and we’ll need every one of them." While its not a new experience for Coach Helfer and her staff, going to the Nutter Center, playing in front of their fans, and having the kids in the spotlight is something that never gets old. "For young players to go to the Nutter Center to get to play is such a thrill for them. The staff at the Nutter Center are so great to work with, and really make the kids feel like they are the stars of the show," exclaimed Helfer.
After all, it is the kids, the players that matter most to her, her staff, and the Newark Catholic family. It is the family atmosphere and hard work that have kept NC in the mix for four decades now, according to Helfer.
"I work hard as the head coach. I make sure my kids are prepared for every season both mentally and physically. We stay in touch with our younger kids in the elementary school programs making sure they know we want them to succeed on their YMCA teams. Most of all I make sure that all of our kids know that I care about them, and want them to be successful on and off the volleyball court." It is a mix of hard work, dedication and fun that the staff at NC values most. "I believe in working hard, but having fun while you do it," said Helfer. "I like to include everyone I possibly can, hate to cut or keep kids down, and hope that I can teach life lessons along the way." So no matter what happens Friday when they face Marion Local, Helfer knows that the tradition and pride that makes Newark Catholic's volleyball program one of those dynasties in Ohio, will carry on for generations to come because of her committment and the commitment of her players and their families. "The kids are willing to work like none other. They put so much time and effort into NC volleyball for years. They believe in it, and believe in themselves. They have been brought up in Newark Catholic families who are several generations of Green Wave, and there is so much pride in being a part of it." It is a formula for success that began brewing in the 1970's and one that seemingly will continue for years to come.

Newark Catholic was ranked #2 in Captain Brinn's final poll this season and will face #5 Marion Local at noon on Friday in The Nutter Center on the campus of Wright State University. #1 Jackson Center and #9 Buckeye Central are the other D4 teams at the final four.

CBOHIO VARSITY STATE FINAL FOUR PREVIEW

Here's our guide to the state final four starting tomorrow, along with our prediction for how it will all turn out:
DIVISION TWO
Match #1-Parma Padua Franciscan (24-3) v. Mansfield Madison Comprehensive (26-2)
The storyline: Padua Franciscan came out of nowhere over the summer to earn some preseason hype and they lived up to it. For Madison Comprehensive, their a brand name in the volleyball world, a traditionally strong program that has state tournament success to boast--they won the D1 title in 1997. Madison has wins over several ranked opponents this year, including Orrville and Bowling Green, with their losses coming against ranked Orrville and ranked Findlay. For Padua Franciscan they clearly faced the tougher schedule and own wins over ranked teams like Holy Name, Walsh Jesuit (twice), Lake Catholic (twice), Mentor and Huron with losses to Magnificat, Lake Catholic, and Holy Name.
Our prediction: Look for this to be an evenly matched semi-final with no clear favorite. Both teams have shown moments of weakness and neither are dominant. Madison Comprehensive is young and that youth may not respond well to the big stage of the state tournament, though a strong win against Celina in regional finals makes us give them the edge in this semi-final.
Our pick: Mansfield Madison Comprehensive

Match #2-Kettering Archbishop Alter (19-7) v. Columbus Bishop Hartley (22-5)
The storyline: Alter turned D2 on its ear when it defeated #1 Tippecanoe in regional semi-finals. A seven loss Alter team is not the norm, but no one can claim it's a real shock. Alter plays in the GGCL, has one of the best programs in the state, and has won multiple state titles this decade. For Bishop Hartley they are returning to state for the second consecutive year. Last season they defeated Tippecanoe in a real battle in the semi-finals before falling to Toledo Central Catholic in the championship. They have no significant wins this season, really, except Roger Bacon and Salem, but they fell to Bishop Watterson three times this season, along with Pickerington North and Wooster Triway.
Our prediction: Don't expect Hartley to go away easily, but don't look for them to be able to defeat Alter, who seemed to find their groove in the tournament. Alter's tough schedule prepares them for the big games like this and they will be an intimidating force.
Our pick: Alter

Championship Match: Mansfield Madison Comprehensive v. Kettering Archbishop Alter
Our pick: Kettering Archbishop Alter
Your pick: Kettering Archbishop Alter with 68% support from our readers!

DIVISION ONE
Match #3-Olmsted Falls (27-0) v. Brecksville-Broadsview Heights (21-4)
The storyline: Olmsted Falls has had hype surrounding them all season long and features a talented team trying to become the first non-private school to win a title in many years. They have played a pretty tough schedule and have come through it unscathed, although they barely survived a test from TSUA in regional semi-finals. They have wins against TSUA (twice), Walsh Jesuit, and Rocky River Magnificat, to name a few, but most significantly, the hold two wins over their competition in this match. They've beaten Brecksville-Broadsview Hts. twice already. With that said, BBH did not compete strongly against Olmsted Falls in those regular season matches, though now anything is possible. BBH was one of the suprises of the season, ascending to #10 in our poll with wins over Holy Name, Stow Munroe-Falls, and Cloverleaf.
Our prediction: If the team that struggled against TSUA in regionals shows up, then BBH might be able to put a scare into Olmsted Falls. However, OF is the clear favorite and should roll on to the title match.
Our pick: Olmsted Falls

Match #4-Cincinnati Ursuline (27-0) v. Cincinnati Mount Notre Dame (23-4)
The storyline: We couldn't ask for a better matchup than this one. The third meeting between GGCL rivals! Ursuline defeated MND in four during their first meeting of the season, but in the second meeting, it was a significant battle, with Ursuline holding on for an 18-16 fifth game finish. Both teams feature the signature, tradition-rich, and collegiate-level of play with strong fan bases that provide for some of the best atmosphere at the tournament. Both teams also play brutal schedules during the season and are used to whatever the other brings to the court.
Our prediction: Look for an all-out war. MND has the advantage of having been to the state final four the past four seasons, including being champs in 2006 and runners-up last season. Coach Donna Mechley is also the more experienced coach out of the two, having won titles with MND in 95, 98, 99, 00, and 06. Ursuline's program is no slouch, winning it last in 2002, but this is the first appearance at Ursuline for Coach Case.
Our pick: Close, but we are going with #1 Cincinnati Ursuline

Championship Match: Cincinnati Ursuline v. Olmsted Falls
Our pick: Cincinnati Ursuline
Your pick: Cincinnati Ursuline with 73% of our readers' votes!

DIVISION FOUR
Match #5-Newark Catholic (26-1) vs. Marion Local (24-3)
The storyline: This is a rematch of last season's state semi-final, which Marion Local ran away with 25-9, 25-13, 25-14. Marion Local lost a lot off of last year's team and aren't nearly as tall, but they are still strong, and they have been tested. They had to get through a favored New Bremen team in a five-game battle in district semi's and almost lost to MAC rival Ft. Recovery in sectionals. They won the vaunted Convoy Crestview Invite this season, a primer for the state tournament, where they defeated Celina for the title and won against Milan Edison. They also beat St. Henry twice, Lehman Catholic, Parkway, Anna, and Minster. For Newark Catholic, they've had a strong showing this season, though cannot boast a win list like ML. They only have one loss and claimed signature wins over Heath (twice), Big Walnut, Anthony Wayne, Tuscarawas Central Catholic, and South Webster. Their only loss was to Milan Edison, the only common opponent they share with Marion Local.
Our prediction: This won't be an easy three-game win for Marion Local like last season as the landscape of the teams has completely changed. Marion Local struggled early in the tournament before having an easy regional path. They are vulnerable. Still, Newark Catholic will be facing a daunting task against a tested MAC opponent where blocking and defense usually drive non-MAC teams crazy.
Our pick: Marion Local

Match #6-Buckeye Central (25-2) vs. Jackson Center (26-1)
The storyline: Jackson Center is making their second consecutive appearance at the final four, while Buckeye Central has found its way back for the first time since back-to-back trips in 2000 and 2001. Buckeye Central, while tradition-rich, has been the surprise team of the season and handed #3 Norwalk St. Paul a shocking defeat in district finals, denying NSP another round in the final four. Their losses are suspect--Riverdale and Hopewell-Loudon. Their wins and their schedule is weak with no big wins, although they have to be decent to beat NSP in four. For Jackson Center, they are a favorite for the title, easily. Their only loss, a close battle with #1 in D3, L.C.C. Wins? Anna (twice), Marion Local, New Bremen.
Our prediction: While BC may have beaten NSP, Jackson Center is playing well, is highly talented, and is tested from their regular season schedule. JC should dominate this match.
Our pick: Jackson Center

Championship Match: Jackson Center vs. Marion Local
Our pick: Marion Local
Your pick: Jackson Center has 44% of our readers' votes, with ML close behind at 37%.

DIVISION THREE
Match #7-Lima Central Catholic (25-1) vs. Gilmour Academy (26-1)
The storyline: LCC is back to defend the D3 title they won last season. They had to survive a strong challenge from St. Henry in regional finals, winning in five, although St. Henry's best player went out after the first play in game one, leading us to believe St. Henry may have rolled to a win. Regardless, they are back and they are tough, but maybe not as tough as last season. They can showcase impressive wins over teams like Milan Edison, Jackson Center, Convoy Crestview, Columbus Grove, Lehman Catholic, Anna, Heath and of course St. Henry. Their only loss was to another state team, Kettering Archbishop Alter. Gilmour Academy will bring state experience to the table as well since they were here last season too. They lost a heartbreaker to Albany Alexander, 16-14, in the fifth game. They might be flying under the radar. Their one loss came against Wooster, while they boast wins against Berkshire (three times), New Middletown Springfield, Walsh Jesuit, Tiffin Columbian, and won a thriller against #3 West Salem Northwestern, 15-13, in their regional final.
Our prediction: This one could be close and we could see an upset. Gilmour Academy won't be nervous since they were there last year and all the pressure is on LCC to repeat. While LCC played a much tougher regular season schedule, Gilmour proved to be steady all season long.
Our pick: Lima Central Catholic

Match #8-Albany Alexander (26-1) v. Versailles (21-7)
The storyline: Versailles had an identity crisis most of the season. They couldn't decide if they wanted to be a top-echelon team, but they must have decided to when tourney season came along. Playing in the always-tough MAC, Versailles won only three matches, losing to teams they shouldn't have lost to. Still, they can highlight their win over Marion Local this season, as well as other wins against tough teams like Fort Recovery, Columbus Bishop Ready, Delphos St. John's, and Lehman Catholic. Alexander can boast about a lot more. They lost to Celina early-on, but haven't lost since, claiming wins along the way that included St. Henry, Wooster Triway, Warsaw River View, Frankfort Adena, and Marion Pleasant. They are making their third consecutive trip to the state final four and lost last season to LCC in the championship.
Our prediction: Alexander should be able to defeat Versailles in their semi-final, though Alexander's own coach (see our story feature on Alexander) admits that Versailles' conference better prepares them for this match. Versailles will block and play strong defense and be very athletic. That will keep them in this match.
Our pick: Albany Alexander

Championship Match: Albany Alexander vs. Lima Central Catholic
Our pick: Albany Alexander
Your pick: LCC gets a dominant 55% of our readers' votes, with Alexander at 23%.

TOMORROW!

The OHSAA State Volleyball Final Four begins tomorrow in Wright State University's Nutter Center in Dayton. The Division 1 and Division 2 semi's will take place tomorrow, where the marquee matchup of the day will happen at when #1 Cincinnati Ursuline takes on GGCL rival #3 Cincinnati Mt. Notre Dame at 6 p.m. Division 2 should feature some good matches as no clear favorite is present in the D2 Final Four, although Alter is favored by our blog readers in our polls off to the right. Later today, we at Captain Brinn will be posting our state final four preview and predictions.

STAY TUNED....

CAST YOUR VOTE!

In keeping with the spirit and excitement of Election Night tonight, we invite you to vote for who you think will win the state titles in each division. The polls are to your right. Exercise your right to vote!

ALEXANDER RISING!

Albany Alexander Hopes Third Time's A Charm

Growing up in southeastern Ohio, no one would have expected Bradd Jeffers to be taking the Albany Alexander girls volleyball team to the state final four for the third consecutive year. After all, Coach Jeffers grew up very poor and worked on a beef farm in his native southeastern Ohio home. Now, in only his sixth season at Alexander High School, the Spartans are primed and ready to capture that elusive Division III crown. Currently, the Spartans boast an impressive 26-1 record with their only hiccup coming to DII Regional Finalist Celina. The Spartans ripped through their sectional, district, and regional, and in fact, have not even been pushed to a fourth set in months. Simply speaking, Albany Alexander is on fire and still peaking. Alexander returns twelve of their fourteen players from a season ago when they fell in four sets in the state championship game to Lima Central Catholic.
Coach Jeffers knows how tough his next opponent is—that opponent is MAC representative Versailles (21-7).
“All I know is they are very big. They run a 6-2 and set it low outside. It is very hard for us to get info on teams. Nobody in our conference plays anyone at all so we are on our own,” states Jeffers.
“We play very fast and serve very hard. People know that but it is very hard to replicate in practice if your team can’t do it. We will be playing against some 6”4 men this week. I can promise you that. It is much easier to replicate size than speed in my opinion.”
Versailles is a very strong opponent, but Alexander has great experience and a great coaching staff and fan support behind them.
“We are a small community, the people in our community really get behind and support the kids,” offers Jeffers.
“Genetically we are quite small and not the most athletic. (We are) Probably the opposite of the MAC schools or Shelby County. When someone has success the community really jumps on board and supports the kids. We appreciate it!”
Alexander has defeated some quality opponents such as St Henry, River View, Frankfort Adena, Amanda Clearcreek, and Wooster Triway.
The Spartans are wasting no time in preparation for upcoming power Versailles. Coach Jeffers admitted, “We never stop working on basics and will be going over all aspects of the game this week, we try to play very fast to make up for the lack of size. We will do some timing drills if Sara (Radekin, setter) gets back to the gym. Passing, passing, passing, passing, defense and serving also.”
He went on to add, “Our practices are extremely intense and very fast paced. We are using two nets most of the time with the varsity team. I believe 100% in quality and quantity reps, and we get a lot of them.”
Coach Jeffers also relies heavily on his assistant coaches for his practices and the upcoming Final Four.
“My assistants are very dedicated and put tons of time in. We take it very serious as do our players. I think that is what makes us successful at the level we are at. One coach cannot work with front/ back row/ blocking/ serving/ transition at the same time. We use all of our coaches and are very efficient.”
While the resume for Coach Jeffers may not be as experience rich as other coaches, he understands that volleyball is more than just a sport. It’s a life lesson all to achieve a common goal. In fact, maybe that is the missing ingredient for some. Jeffers proudly answers, “It has such a broad base as you know. Coaching involves so much more than the sport you are playing. I would say that we start with everything other than volleyball. We will seldom be the most talented team. We have never had a kid get even close to a Division I college look. We can however, consistently be the loudest, most focused, hardest working, best fundamental and disciplined team. That is what we try to do here at Alexander.”
His formula for success must be working. Now in his sixth season at Alexander, he has amassed a whopping 141-17 record, thus producing one of the most impressive program turnarounds Ohio has ever seen in such a short time. Jeffers explains, “It's America. If you are willing to work extremely hard and smart you can get to the top. We live in a great country and opportunity is everywhere, nothing is free that is worth having.”
He also added, “I could go into a long story about developing relationships and starting a club program in the worst area in the state for volleyball. It all boils down to hard work, keeping your eye on the prize and expecting more from these kids than everyone else has. I believe you will never get more than you expect from a young person, and you are cheating them if you settle for less than their best.”
Again, many would have never guessed Bradd Jeffers to be making yet another trek to the Nutter Center, and nor could he. He remembers being offered the junior high 8th grade position as no one wanted the job. Coach Jeffers took the job and went 14-2. Never before had he played organized volleyball nor coached. Following that stint, Alexander’s AD offered the varsity job to Coach Jeffers, much to his dismay. He states, “The next year the Varsity Coaching position was open again for the 4th consecutive year. The AD asked me to try it because no one applied. I refused several times stating that I knew nothing about the game. Eventually he wore me down and I said yes, there was simply nobody to coach.”
Fortunately for Coach Jeffers there was another soon to be star taking a head coaching position at the same time. Geoff Carlston was hired at Ohio University to head their women’s volleyball program.
“The next week Geoff was hired at OU. It took me about 30 seconds to get his number and make the contact. We have since grown to be great friends and he has been a huge influence on my life in many ways. I convinced his fiancé Sara Tibesar to help us that year and gave her half of my $2800 paycheck to help. She is today still one of my best friends. I also called Laura Smith at Adena and asked for help. She is an amazing person and helped me with many ideas. I started developing a summer program very similar to hers. The rest is history,” exuded Coach Jeffers.
Win or lose, Coach Jeffers is a diamond in the rough. He understands work ethic, discipline, morals, and understands his players.
“I love the kids. They give back so much. These girls are extremely hungry and hang on every word you say, trying to get a little better every single day. I have been blessed with kids that are so unselfish and totally team oriented. The best part of my day is walking into practice and working hard for two to for hours and knowing they will work just as hard as me and my staff and never complain for one second.”

Albany Alexander will take action against Versailles at the Nutter Center on Friday, November 7th at 6pm.

THE FINAL FOUR!

It's finally set! The OHSAA State Volleyball Final Four has been set after today's lackluster regional finals provided little in the way of competition. In Division 1, the marquee match of the day between GGCL powerhouses Mother of Mercy and Mt. Notre Dame turned out to be a bust with Mt. Notre Dame rolling to a three game win. Ursuline, Olmsted Falls, and Brecksville-Broadsview Heights all advanced without much resistance.
In D2, Mansfield Madison returns to state and flew past Celina, who didn't put up much of a fight or play like they did against TCC. Parma Padua Franciscan blew past Mentor Lake Catholic, Bishop Hartley won easily over Big Walnut, and Kettering Alter won going away over Logan Elm.
D3 saw the best matches of the day. LCC was pushed to the limits by St. Henry, winning 15-11 in the fifth game. West Salem Northwestern and Gilmour Academy truly tested one another and in the end Gilmour simply was able to last longer winning 15-13 in the fifth. Versailles is going back to state after a four-game win against Middletown Bishop Fenwick and Albany Alexander, who we think may be D3's best, embarrassed Frankfort Adena in a three-game breeze-through.
In D4 there wasn't any real challenge, as Marion Local, Newark Catholic, and Jackson Center all return to the Nutter Center for the second consecutive year without any fight from the other teams they faced: Leipsic, South Webster, and Fort Loramie, respectively. Kidron Central Christian went down to Buckeye Central, but took the Buckettes to four games.
When it was all said and done, 8 teams that were at the state tourney last season are heading back.

STATE FINAL FOUR
Division One
#1 Cincinnati Ursuline v. #3 Cincinnati Mt. Notre Dame
#2 Olmsted Falls v. #10 Brecksville-Broadsview Heights
Division Two
#2 Parma Padua Franciscan v. #4 Mansfield Madison Comprehensive
#8 Columbus Bishop Hartley v. #19 Kettering Archbishop Alter
Division Three
#1 Lima Central Catholic v. #6 Gates Gilmour Academy
#2 Albany Alexander v. #18 Versailles
Division Four
#5 Marion Local v. #2 Newark Catholic
#9 Buckeye Central v. #1 Jackson Center

Almost There

While we try to find the results of Mother of Mercy vs. Mt. Notre Dame and Alexander and Adena, two matches expected to be highly competitive, we do have most of the results and many more since our last posting several hours ago. We know that in D1 Brecksville-Broadsview Heights ousted Cloverleaf in four games. In D3 Versailles becomes the MAC's second representative at state this season after they toppled upstart Middletown Bishop Fenwick. Jackson Center did not let Fort Loramie get into the match at all in their D4 regional final and beat them in an easy three game match. Also in D4 Buckeye Central prevailed and returns to state for the first time in years after getting past Kidron Central Christian in four.

FULL FINAL FOUR RESULTS TO COME....

Final Four Filling Out

Well now we know at least one more team who will be joining Marion Local in Division 4: Newark Catholic. NC was there last year as well. These two will face each other next week at the state tournament. Newark Catholic was victorious over South Webster in three, 25-23, 25-21, 25-17. Gates Gilmour Academy will also return to state in D3 after a five-game thriller that saw them win against West Salem Northwestern 15-13 in the fifth game.

MORE TO COME...

More Results

A couple more results to report. Olentangy was up big in game three and had a match point at 24-23, but couldn't topple #1 Cincinnati Ursuline to get back into the match. They dropped the first two games 25-18, 25-13. Along with Ursuline, #2 Olmsted Falls will join them in the final four for division one after defeating Magnificat 28-26, 26-24, 25-14.

MORE TO COME...

First Results

Well what do we know so far? We have reports of five teams with their tickets punched and no surprises. In D3, Lima Central Catholic barely survived against St. Henry in a five game tussle that ended 15-11. LCC will advance to their second consecutive final four where they will attempt to defend their title.
In D2, Columbus Bishop Hartley and Parma Padua Franciscan both rolled over their opponents, Big Walnut and Mentor Lake Catholic, respectively. Mansfield Madison was taken to four games, but outlasted Celina.
D4 will also see their defending champ getting a chance to repeat as Marion Local made short work of Leipsic 25-11, 25-13, 25-18.

MORE TO COME...

THE PATH TO STATE!

For 32 teams tomorrow there is but one obstacle left in their pathway to the OHSAA State Volleyball Final Four. For some of them they've been down this road before, and while experience and tradition counts, there are no short-cuts once play begins. Here's our roadmap on what to watch for when all 16 matches get underway tomorrow:
In Division One: The Clear Favorite: Cincinnati Ursuline, the #1 team in this division, destroyed Marysville Thursday night to advance, and should breeze by #12 Olentangy, who shocked #4 Dublin Coffman in their semi-final. Olentangy will need a perfect match and an uncharacteristic performance from Ursuline.
The Underdog: Unproven Cloverleaf, ranked #25 in our final poll, advanced by upsetting #21 Mentor. They are unknown and lacking the tradition of other schools at this level, but facing off against #10 Brecksville-Broadsview Heights does not pose an impossible challenge.
Anyone's Guess: A repeat of last season's state final happens will be on display when two GGCL powerhouses face-off for the third time this season. In their previous meetings, #5 Cincinnati Mother of Mercy and #3 Cincinnati Mt. Notre Dame split in five game thrillers. Needless to say, only one can return to state this season and there is no clear favorite.
Upset City: #2 Olmsted Falls had many thinking, including us, that they might be able to contend for the state title this season, ending the GGCL's chokehold on the crown. But a lackluster performance against a way-down Toledo St. Ursula team Thursday that almost found them on the losing end showcased the fact that they might not be all they appeared to be earlier in the season. #15 Rocky River Magnificat, seeking a return trip to the final four, might have enough in their arsenals to end Olmsted's dream season.
In Division Two: The Clear Favorite: #19 Kettering Archbishop Alter may not have had the best regular season, but when they rolled over #1 Tipp City Tippecanoe in their semi-final meeting, they proved to everyone that they are made for tourney season. The traditional powerhouse and GGCL team now moves into the role of favored status, especially against little known Logan Elm.
The Underdog: Speaking of Logan Elm, they came out of nowhere! At a respectable 21-4, their only semi-quality win of the season came against #26 Urbana in regional semi's, but now they face the daunting task of beating Alter.
Anyone's Guess: While #8 Bishop Hartley is our favorite to emerge, #11 Big Walnut is no slouch. The two teams met earlier in the season, with Hartley winning in three close games. Now, however, this one should be closer and either team could prevail. Same could be said for the match that pits #4 Parma Padua Franciscan against #10 Mentor Lake Catholic. The two met twice this season with Lake Catholic winning the first one in three game and Padua winning the second in three games. This one is anyone's guess.
Upset City: #17 Celina is a strong team, but their upset of defending state champion, #6 ranked Toledo Central Catholic was a stunner and our people say Celina was more than impressive. #2 Mansfield Madison Comprehensive will have their work cut out for them.
In Division Three: The Clear Favorite: #2 Albany Alexander has flown under-the-radar and has gotten little buzz despite losing only once and being the defending state runners-up. #5 Frankfort Adena won't roll over and play dead, but Alexander is clearly stronger and should return to state once again.
The Underdog: #25 St. Henry started out the season 4-10 before reeling off 12 consecutive wins. The brand-name program, with plenty of state titles, may not be an underdog in the truest sense, but they will have their hands full with the defending state champion and #1 ranked L.C.C. T-Birds.
Anyone's Guess: #6 Gilmour Academy is looking for a return appearance to the final four, but will have to get by #3 West Salem Northwestern, a team that is looking good. The two teams will likely battle it out in a tight match.
Upset City: Well, it certainly would be quite the upset if St. Henry can get past an L.C.C. team that has only lost once since winning last year's championship, but it can also be said that when unranked Middletown Bishop Fenwick knocks off #18 Versailles today that it will be called an upset!
In Division Four: The Clear Favorite: #5 Marion Local, the defending state champions, has the easiest path out of anyone to return to state. Look for a three-game warm-up against #8 Leipsic today in their regional final.
The Underdog: #19 South Webster has a quality team this season, but they will have to bring their A-game to defeat #2 Newark Catholic, looking to return to state once again.
Anyone's Guess: #9 Buckeye Central got to this point for the first time in years by pulling off a major upset against #3 Norwalk St. Paul. We think they have the pathway to state in this one, but #15 Kidron Central Christian isn't exactly a team to be taken lightly. They played a tough schedule and only lost three times and in close games against the likes of Wooster Triway and Smithville. This match could go either way.
Upset City: #1 Jackson Center has pretty much played perfect volleyball this season, losing only once (to #1 D3 Lima Central Catholic) and coming close to losing only twice more (against #5 Marion Local and #6 Lehman Catholic). But, it's those close matches and the pressure of getting back to state with the #1 ranking targets on their backs that might lend their match-up with #26 Fort Loramie into being a huge upset in the making. Fort Loramie just got done dismantling Lehman in regional semi-finals, and while JC has beaten Loramie twice already this season, it is always hard to beat a team three times. We look for Jackson Center to pull it out, but they better be ready later today!