GCL volleyball reigns supreme

The Greater Catholic League (GCL) is known for its football, basketball and baseball dynasties. But is the GCL best in a sport that isn’t as widely covered and publicized? Since 1997, the GCL-South schools have all but dominated men’s volleyball in the state of Ohio.

Moeller, Elder and St. Xavier have combined to win 11 of the past 13 state titles in volleyball, and they all moved on in tournament play last night. The only GCL-South member who hasn’t won a volleyball state title, LaSalle, also moved on in tournament play on Wednesday evening.

Moeller defeated Milford in three games, but had some trouble in the second game. The Crusaders led 20-10 before the Eagles mounted an 11-1 run to tie the game at 21 all. Moeller won that game 25-23, and crushed Milford in the final game 25-6. Moeller will move on to defend their 2009 state title by playing another GCL rival on Saturday.

That rival is St. Xavier, who defeated Fairfield in three games as well. At Elder High School the LaSalle Lancers defeated West Side rival Oak Hills, and Elder defended their home court by taking down Mason in three games. Elder will play LaSalle on Saturday night at Moeller.

So, of the state’s final 16 teams, four of them are from the same league, and the same conference within the league. The GCL is known for great athletic programs, but not many people are aware of the GCL’s dominance in volleyball.

If you seem interested in watching some great volleyball, head on out to Moeller High School on Saturday evening, I can almost guarantee you will be surprised by the fast pace of play and excitement in these matches. Moeller and St. Xavier start the action at 5:30 p.m. and Elder will take on LaSalle following the first match.

Also, I hope to soon post a story to the FOX19 website about Moeller’s dominance of the sport. When the story runs I’ll post a link and my written story here. Have a great afternoon.