With only a trio of seniors on the roster, the 2018 season has been one of rapid development and growth for the Saint Ignatius varsity volleyball team.

Two players, in particular, have exhibited phenomenal progress during a year of hard work and noticeable results. 

Coaches and players from around the state have watched Phil Catanzaro and Quinn Flanagan with admiration. Thus, the junior and sophomore have been rewarded with All-State accolades.

Catanzaro drew a place on the first-team All-State squad and Flanagan found a spot on the honorable mention squad.

Catanzaro has enjoyed a banner season, developing into one of the best players in the state. The outside hitter tops the team with 164 kills on the year, an absolute force from the front row. Catanzaro has also thrived from elsewhere on the court, tabbing an impressive 61 aces from the service line and a remarkable 118 digs from all over the court. The All-North Region Player of the Year is a treat to watch.  

"Phil has put in a lot of extra work to help bring his game to the level it is today," said Head Coach Jacob Layden. "Additionally, his growth as a team leader has been integral to our success this season."

Flanagan, a member of the team as a freshman, has blossomed into a dynamic player at the net as a sophomore. The 6'3" outside hitter / right side hitter has thrived up front with 160 kills, just behind Catanzaro for the team lead. The exceptional player has also poured in 49 aces and 83 kills for the 19-4 Volleyball Cats. 

"Quinn is one of the few underclassmen to receive all state honors," said Layden. "He has grown tremendously as a player this year and I look forward to see where he will be in the future."

With both of these talented Cats on the roster for the playoff run and next season, the future is breathtakingly bright for the Wildcats.

The future begins on Saturday with a trip to Capital University. The Wildcats will play in the Ohio High School Boys Volleyball Association (OHSBVA) State Quarterfinal, facing off with Northmont at 1:30 pm. 

The Wildcats will be playing for the right to advance to the State Semifinals on Sunday, for the second season in a row.