Ellie Kinn took on a tough transition during her first varsity season with the Lady Hub volleyball program. The rising senior adjusted well, however, and she’ll likely be a returning starter for a 2020 team looking to follow up a historic 21-win season this past year.

Kinn began her high school career as an outside hitter, playing the position for two years before moving to the back row and becoming the starting varsity libero as a junior. She finished second on the Lady Hubs in both digs (206) and aces (28) this past season, and with a full year of back-row experience under her belt, Kinn will be looking to be a greater contributor this fall.

“I thought I did well in adapting to a new position and playing at a higher level,” Kinn said. “I want to improve my communication on the court and I want to better my passing skills. For my senior season, my ultimate goal would be to lead the team in digs, and in order to get there, I need to continue working hard while focusing on my form and moving my feet more often.”

An Academic All-Conference honoree this past season, Kinn will be one of only two rising senior starters returning to the Lady Hubs this fall. Rochelle fared well in its first season as a member of the Interstate 8 Conference, tying for fourth place with the Morris Redskins at 7-7 overall. The Lady Hubs also reached the IHSA 3A Regional Finals for the second straight season, and while the girls took second both times, they’re optimistic that the third time will be the charm.

“We performed really well last year,” Kinn said. “I want us to strive to be regional champions next year while having less than five losses throughout the season. We had great chemistry on the court last season, and I think that improving my communication will help our team.”