North Allegheny is back at No. 1 — and really, is anyone surprised? The Tigers are rounding into form at the perfect time, but this classification remains a minefield. On any given night, eight or nine teams could take down a contender, making 4A one of the deepest and most unpredictable playoff pictures in the WPIAL.
1 – North Allegheny
The Tigers reclaimed the top spot with sweeps of Seneca Valley and North Hills, reminding everyone that they’re still the gold standard in Class 4A. Setter Keely McMahon-Regan continues to spread the offense beautifully, feeding an arsenal that includes one of the area’s premier hitters, Molly Robertson. When NA’s rhythm is clicking, they’re nearly unbeatable.
2 – Peters Township
What a week for the Indians. Peters pulled out a five-set thriller at home against Canon-McMillan, then followed it up with another five-set win over Upper St. Clair. Those gritty victories speak volumes about this team’s poise and leadership. They’re peaking at just the right time.
3 – Upper St. Clair
The Panthers remain near the top after sweeping Bethel Park and battling Peters Township in a tight five-set loss. With Hayden Culp continuing to deliver as an all-around weapon and Sarah McShane anchoring the defense, USC still looks every bit like a title threat.
4 – North Catholic
It was an up-and-down week for the Trojans, who were swept by Pine-Richland but bounced back to win in four at Butler. The upcoming stretch — including matchups with Seneca Valley and North Allegheny — will tell us exactly where this team stands heading into the postseason.
5 – Pine-Richland
The Rams earned a statement sweep over North Catholic but couldn’t sustain it, suffering a four-set upset at home against Seneca Valley. Still, their offensive ceiling remains sky-high when they’re in system. They’re dangerous — just unpredictable.
On the Fringe
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Canon-McMillan – Gave Peters Township a major scare in five sets and nearly pulled off the upset.
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Seneca Valley – Huge road win at Pine-Richland puts them right back on the radar.
Games to Watch
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Tuesday, Oct. 14 – Upper St. Clair at Canon-McMillan – A tough follow-up for both after emotional matches last week.
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Tuesday, Oct. 14 – Seneca Valley at North Catholic – Trap game potential with the Trojans possibly looking ahead to Thursday.
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Thursday, Oct. 16 – North Catholic at North Allegheny – A top-five showdown that could preview a playoff matchup.