The top of Class 4A remains a tug-of-war for playoff positioning. Upper St. Clair stays steady at No. 1, while North Allegheny’s win over Pine-Richland reminded everyone that the Tigers are still elite. North Catholic and Peters Township continue to jockey for position just behind, and with several marquee matchups on tap this week, the race for section titles could tighten fast.
1 – Upper St. Clair
The Panthers remain on top after grinding out a five-set win over Canon-McMillan and sweeping Baldwin. Senior outside hitter Hayden Culp continues to be an all-around force, while libero Sarah McShane anchors one of the toughest defenses in the WPIAL. USC’s ability to win close matches and keep composure late in sets has been their calling card all season.
2 – North Allegheny
The Tigers are hitting their stride again after taking down Pine-Richland in four sets. Setter Keely McMahon-Regan continues to distribute the offense with precision, feeding an arsenal of hitters that includes one of the top players in the area, Molly Robertson. When that duo is clicking, North Allegheny looks as dangerous as ever.
3 – North Catholic
The Trojans rolled through Seton LaSalle and North Hills last week, sweeping one and winning the other in four. Their defensive play has taken a big step forward, and a huge matchup with Pine-Richland on Tuesday will reveal just how close they are to the top two.
4 – Peters Township
A four-set loss at Pine-Richland dropped the Indians slightly, but a rebound sweep of Bethel Park keeps them well within striking distance. They’ll have plenty of chances to climb back up with matches against Canon-McMillan and Upper St. Clair this week.
5 – Pine-Richland
The Rams hold steady at No. 5 after a solid week that included a four-set win at Peters Township and a competitive loss to North Allegheny. Their offense continues to find rhythm, and with key section battles ahead — including matchups against North Catholic and Seneca Valley — Pine-Richland has a prime opportunity to climb even higher.
Games to Watch
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Tuesday, Oct. 7 – Canon-McMillan at Peters Township
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Tuesday, Oct. 7 – North Allegheny at Seneca Valley
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Tuesday, Oct. 7 – North Catholic at Pine-Richland
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Tuesday, Oct. 7 – Hempfield at Penn-Trafford
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Thursday, Oct. 9 – Upper St. Clair at Peters Township
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Thursday, Oct. 9 – Seneca Valley at Pine-Richland