Written by Jack Hart
Rochester volleyball made a statement Tuesday night.
The Rockets welcomed the defending state champions, Normal University, to town for their first Central State Eight Conference match of the season — and Rochester delivered a convincing 2-0 sweep, winning 25-17 and 25-18.
After battling U-High in the past, Rochester entered the night knowing it would have to play with confidence and energy. The Rockets did exactly that, controlling both sets and picking up a huge early-season win against one of the state’s top programs.
Sam Kerley led Rochester with 11 digs, while Katie Riedle paced the Rockets with three aces and seven kills. Cami Tinder directed the offense with 18 assists.
For Riedle, the victory was especially meaningful after coming up short against U-High in previous seasons.
“Last year we played tough. We obviously didn’t come out on top, and I think this year we wanted it really bad,” Riedle said. “Knowing that we were the underdogs coming into this because they’re state champs, I think we really wanted this. We came out with a bunch of energy.”
Riedle also credited Rochester’s upperclassmen for helping set the tone.
“I’ve been with them since my freshman year, and it’s really so surreal. They’ve pushed me every step of the way. Peyton is literally like a leader to me. I look up to her so much. Her energy pushes me.”
The win also provided an important confidence boost for a Rochester team that believes it belongs among the state’s best.
“Knowing that we are not the underdogs anymore,” Riedle said. “I think it’s so fun knowing that we just came out and beat state champions, and knowing that people should know what Rochester volleyball really is.”
After Rochester had to fight through a slow start in its previous match, the Rockets responded with a much stronger performance in their first home match.
With a strong home crowd behind them, Rochester came out aggressive and never let U-High settle in.
“It was our first home game. There were so many fans here to support us, and it was definitely great,” Riedle said.
The Rockets will look to carry the momentum into Thursday when they travel to face Staunton.
A 2-0 sweep over the defending state champions is more than just a conference win — it’s an early statement from Rochester volleyball.
Rochester 2, Normal U-High 0
Set 1: Rochester 25, U-High 17
Set 2: Rochester 25, U-High 18
Rochester Leaders:
- Digs: Sam Kerley — 11
- Aces: Katie Riedle — 3
- Kills: Katie Riedle — 7
- Assists: Cami Tinder — 18