3A has been one of the WPIAL’s most entertaining brackets in recent years — and 2025 looks no different. With defending champ Mars, perennial contender Beaver, and a host of challengers like Freeport, Chartiers Valley, and Oakland Catholic, the road to the title should be packed with storylines. Here’s how the field stacks up:
1 – Mars
The Planets enter 2025 with the biggest target on their backs — and plenty of firepower to defend their crown. All-State outside hitter Cecilia Christy, an Elon commit, is the classification’s premier offensive weapon, capable of taking over any match. Pair her with fellow senior Rylee Woolridge, and Mars has a lethal 1-2 punch on the pins. Add in rising star Gabi Weidemann, a sophomore setter who broke out last season, and the Planets have both the experience and talent to make another deep run.
2 – Beaver
After falling just short of a repeat last year, the Bobcats are loaded for another title chase. They return not one, but two All-State performers in senior libero Aubrey Bumblis and middle hitter Kailyn Connelly, giving Beaver one of the best defensive cores in the WPIAL. Sophomore Kayden Blinn shifts to setter after a standout club season, and her development could be the key to unlocking the Bobcats’ full potential. With this much experience, Beaver won’t settle for anything less than another shot at Mars.
3 – Freeport
Quarter century, same story: Coach Tom Phillips has Freeport right back in the contender conversation. The Yellowjackets bring back heavy experience from last year’s semifinal squad, led by juniors Jayme Radvan (MH) and Jaisa Gaillot (S), both all-section honorees. That core gives Freeport the balance and stability to keep buzzing near the top of 3A — and if history tells us anything, this program knows how to win when it matters.
4 – Chartiers Valley
A new era begins with Coach Cullen Vereb, but the Colts aren’t starting from scratch. Sophomore outside Payton Friburger, a Third-Team All-WPIAL pick, is one of the fastest-rising offensive stars in the region. Surround her with experienced returners like Isabella Fries (DS), Sophia Russel (OPP), and Tessa Zematis (OH), and this group has the pieces to grow into a real threat by playoff time. Don’t be surprised if the Colts are peaking when November rolls around.
5 – Oakland Catholic
Watch out for the Eagles. Coach Jenna Potts has steadily built this program, and year three could be the breakthrough. Oakland Catholic nearly stunned Beaver in last year’s playoffs, and that experience should fuel them in 2025. Josie Fontana, a senior All-State outside, is one of the top hitters in the classification, and junior setter Reagan Mascaro gives her the distribution to shine. If their supporting cast steps up, the Eagles could force their way into the championship mix.
On the Fringe
Hampton, Thomas Jefferson, Indiana, Central Valley — all have enough talent to make noise, and one of them could easily play spoiler to the favorites.
How will it play out?
The 3A bracket never disappoints, and this year looks no different. All signs point toward another showdown between Mars and Beaver. Mars brings plenty of firepower, but Beaver’s improved defense could be the difference this time around. Give the Bobcats the edge to reclaim the WPIAL crown. From there, expect the rivalry to carry over into the PIAA semifinals — a stage where momentum, matchups, and nerves collide. That one feels like a true toss-up.
Players To Watch
Every season, a handful of players emerge as the names everyone knows by November. These athletes already have the résumé — and the skill — to make an impact on the 2025 race:
Cecilia Christy, MH – Mars (Elon)
Aubrey Bumblis, L – Beaver (Cal U)
Haley Trosky, OH – West Allegheny (Eastern Michigan)
Delaney Barto, L – Montour (IUP)
Rylee Woolridge, OH – Mars
Kailyn Connelly, MH/OH – Beaver
Kayden Blinn, S – Beaver
Paige Fisanich, OH – Indiana
Josie Fontana, OH – Oakland Catholic
Viola MacNeil, OH – Thomas Jefferson
Lily Muczinski, S – Hampton
Juliette Leroux, MH – South Fayette
Bella Dinkel, S – Greensburg Salem
Alina Antoniades, S – Moon
Annet Christian, MH – Montour
Payton Friburger, OH – Chartiers Valley
Gabby Humphries, MH – Trinity