Class 2A is already shaping up to be a crowded field at the top, with Hopewell taking an early edge thanks to strong section play and a MAC tournament run. South Park, Seton LaSalle, and Brownsville are all piling up wins, while OLSH has quietly built a résumé of their own. Several challengers — Waynesburg, Shenango, Neshannock, and Burrell — are waiting just outside the Top 5, which means the pressure will only keep building as section play continues.
1 – Hopewell
The Vikings earned a key home win over Avonworth in four sets and followed with a sweep of New Brighton. They carried that momentum into the MAC Tournament, where they made an impressive run capped by a semifinal win over Mars before falling to Beaver in the final. Hopewell has the look of a serious contender.
2 – South Park
South Park has been rock-solid in the early going, sweeping Keystone Oaks and Sto-Rox. The Eagles have passed every test so far, and that makes them a clear No. 2 for now.
3 – Seton LaSalle
The Rebels picked up a trio of big wins at home, taking down Serra Catholic, South Allegheny, and East Allegheny without much trouble. With a balanced attack and momentum on their side, Seton LaSalle is quickly becoming a team no one wants to face.
4 – Brownsville
The Falcons keep finding ways to win, adding victories over California, Charleroi, and Bentworth to their résumé. They haven’t been tested against the very top tier yet, but a huge showdown with Waynesburg looms this week.
5 – OLSH
The Chargers are making noise after home wins over Aliquippa and Northgate. While they don’t have a marquee victory yet, OLSH is taking care of business in Section 1 and earning a spot in the Top 5.
On the Fringe
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Waynesburg – Wins over Chartiers-Houston and Burgettstown have them knocking at the door.
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Shenango – Pulled out tight five-set victories against Riverside and Neshannock.
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Neshannock – Beat Beaver Falls but fell to Shenango.
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Burrell – Strong week with wins over Yough and Neighborhood Academy.
Games to Watch this Week
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Tuesday, Sept. 16 – Waynesburg at Brownsville: Huge clash for control in Section 3.
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Thursday, Sept. 18 – South Park at South Allegheny: A test for the Eagles in Section 2.
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Thursday, Sept. 18 – Burrell at Deer Lakes: A matchup of fringe contenders.