PLAYER OF THE YEAR

Like many of the state’s top hitters, Sarah Walsh of Hunterdon Central can hit the ball over the net with impressive velocity. But in the eyes of her coach Stephen Fenton, what separates Walsh from most, is her court vision and knowing where to put those shots.

That combination of volleyball IQ, power and athleticism allowed Walsh to take over games, especially during the Red Devils’ run to a second consecutive Group 4 championship.

Walsh had 60 kills in five state playoff games, including 13 in the Group 4 final against Williamstown and 14 in the Tournament of Champions semifinals against Immaculate Heart. Overall, Walsh had 10 or more kills in eight of her final nine matches, allowing her to have a breakout senior season.

Walsh finished with 280 kills and 70 digs as part of Hunterdon Central’s “Core Four” along with Mackenzie Bruzzio, Megan Kern and Maria Pansari leave a legacy, which won’t soon be forgotten at the school.