By MIKE MATHIS
La PORTE -- Something about Slicer Gym seems to agree with Munster.
The fifth-ranked Mustangs bested No. 3 La Porte for the second time this season Saturday, prevailing 27-29, 25-16, 15-12 in the La Porte tournament.
Down 24-20 in the first game, the Slicers (14-2) stormed back with four straight points, including back-to-back aces from 'glue girl' Macy Mrozinski. After five ties, La Porte earned the victory, but Munster stormed back as coach Brett Boden began to rest big jun, junior Haley Melby. Picking up the slack was Lourdes 'Lu Lu' Torres, playing in six rotations. Single setter Marissa Gronkiewicz and Libero Sarah 'Bear' Morton (Auburn) were both impressive. A big surprise was 6-2 middle hitter Emily Banaszek, who was strong on the block as well as hitting. She doesn't plan to play in college, though she certainly could.
For La Porte, Libero turned hitter Olivia Voelker, who had a number of hits past a two up block that no one touched. She also has a nice side arm swing deep court ball. No surprise at this point is setter Halle Seaburg, who dishes butter and hits the floor on defense. Junior middle hitter Aniya Kennedy, who could touch a basketball rim in seventh grade, has added a slide to her game.
La Porte assistant athletic director Steve Santana, once again, did a great running the tournament. Major credit for finding a last-minute replacement and ensuring safe passage for the fan-less event necessitated by COVID-19 concerns.
Munster swept Fort Wayne Concordia, South Bend St. Joseph and Fairfield in pool play, while La Porte did the same against Carroll, Mishawaka and Fairfield.
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The Munster volleyball team won Saturday's La Porte Invitational, downing the host Slicers in the championship, 27-29, 25-16, 15-12. The Mustangs have accounted for both of La Porte's losses this season. (Photo courtesy of Munster Volleyball Twitter)