State tourney the ultimate goal for Union Grove volleyball

By Tim Wester

Sports Correspondent

State or bust.

That is what the Union Grove volleyball team is living by this season.

And with a formidable group of talented and experienced players returning to the team this season, it’s hard to argue with the team goal.

The Broncos are returning eight letter-winners, including all-conference performers Kylie Wilks, a junior and senior Savannah Kohlhagen. The talented duo has helped lead its team to two consecutive WIAA Regional playoff championships, a top 10 ranking, and a WIAA Sectional final appearance last season.

After falling just one game short of a state championship appearance with a 3 games to none loss to Muskego, Wilks, a UW-Milwaukee recruit, and Kohlhagen, a Western Carolina recruit are looking to build on last season’s successes.

“I definitely think this could be the year we put it all together as a team and make a run to state,” said Kohlhagen, who is a team co-captain. “We may not be the tallest team around, but we may be the strongest. Everyone on the team has worked really hard on getting stronger from lifting and working on getting better.”

Wilks, who admitted in July to already focusing on going to state, also sees the potential for a memorable season.

The Broncos’ talent and swagger is helping make the upcoming season memorable for coach Sarah Busalacchi.

“As far as athletes to watch for this year, I’d say my entire team is worthy,” BusaIacchi said. “I’m blessed to have eight returning letter winners to the team. Wilks is a fantastic athlete who has received both national, state, and conference recognition and Kohlhagen is also another athlete that has national accolades and is definitely someone to watch this season.”

Meanwhile, Alex Goodrich will also be of value for her strength and athleticism.

“Alex has great ability to get places on the court and her swing strength will really help us again this year,” Busalacchi said.

Joining the veteran players are sophomore setter Brynn Hetland and freshman Becca Borowski, who both look to crack the rotation.

Maddy Hugasian, Shannon Anderson, Hailey Berens round out the team and look to bring heart and strong work ethic to the team.

Union Grove kicked off its season at home yesterday with the Quad against Racine Case, Racine St. Cat’s, and Milwaukee Messmer.

The Broncos are also participating at the UW-Whitewater Invite today.

Later this season, Union Grove will participate in the New Berlin West Invite, the Kettle Moraine Lutheran Invitational, the UW-Oshkosh Invite, and the Shoreland Lutheran Invitational.

On top of the grueling tournaments, the Broncos face strong competition in the Southern Lakes Conference, including Burlington.

Then it’s on to the postseason, where Union Grove looks to make a historic run to the school’s first-ever trip to the state tournament.

Will Union Grove reach its ultimate goal?

Busalacchi certainly has the pieces in place to make a run.

“We have so many good players returning this season,” Busalacchi said. “Hopefully we can continue to work hard and reach our goals this season.”

The only question remaining is will the Broncos put it all together?