Mercy Varsity Volleyball (MVV) competed in the Catholic League Finals against rival Father Gabriel Richard at Madonna University on Oct. 24. It was the first time in three years that the team has advanced to the Catholic League Finals.

“It felt good to finally get to where we have been working towards for these past three years,” said MVV player senior Liz Susitko.

While the main event of the night is the game, awards are also given out beforehand that recognize hard work, skill, leadership, and academic achievements for players on all the teams in the Catholic League. Five MVV players won awards to recognize their achievements throughout the season.

The first award, the All League Award, was given to seniors Kennedy Kuffner and Allie Sanderson.

“I felt honored to receive this award for the past two years in such a high level volleyball program,” said Kuffner, after receiving the award for the second time.

“It felt really gratifying to be recognized since I’ve put so much hard work and effort into this season,” said Sanderson. “My coaches and teammates really pushed me this year, and I feel really accomplished by seeing what all of my dedication can bring me. I worked my hardest and tried my best, so I am glad to see all that I have done over the season amount to something so great.”

Next, the All Academic Award was given to senior Jordyn Kreucher.

“This was special for me because for the past four years, I’ve worked hard to achieve grades that I’m proud of, and being recognized for that was exciting,” said Kreucher.

Last, the highest award a player can receive, the All Catholic Award, was given to freshman Jess Mruzik and junior Lauren Hunter.

“I was so excited they picked me as All Catholic this year, especially just because I [am] a freshman,” said Mruzik. “Lauren and I are both so happy and honored to be given this award.”

While winning the award was rewarding for all five players, that alone wasn’t the only memorable part for them.

“It was a really fun moment to share with the Jess, Jordyn, Kennedy, and Allie,” said Hunter. “I was so proud of everyone from Mercy that got an award, and it was a great memory with the whole team.”