Volleyball Report: Ben Franklin downs Ursuline as Pulizzano family splits the difference

Area Prep Volleyball Report for Friday, Sept. 11

When relatives are on opposing sides in any athletic competition, there are split allegiances.

There are also two ways to view the ultimate result.

One is that no one loses, the other is that one side is very happy while the other is sad.

On Thursday, the player may be disappointed but the victorious coach is very happy.

On the Lakefront, Ben Franklin downed Ursuline Academy 25-21, 25-16, 25-27, 25-23.

Madeleine Meeker led the way for the Falcons with 20 kills and Laurette Compass finished with 11 kills. Kate Humphrys dished out 42 assists while Zoe Bell with 30 digs. Annabel Allen added 30 digs and served two aces as well in the winning cause.

For Ursuline, Megan Pulizzano had 12 kills and 13 assists to lead the Lions while Britton Owens had eight kills. Annabel Beatmann finished with 18 digs and Sarah Roth served three aces.

Pulizzano is the niece of legendary coach Jodee Pulizzano of Ben Franklin, who has won over 850 matches and six state championships in her illustrious career of 31 years.

The aunt was happy with the victory, happy to play and proud of her niece.

“She (Megan) did well and so did their team,” Pulizzano said. “It’s a great win for us. It’s been 365 days since they beat us in five sets last year. Our gilrs were waiting for this game. A lot of our kids play club together. We’ve been looking forward to it, especially just ot play in this environment.”

Just to be able to set foot on the court and compete is a blessing for Pulizzano and her team.

“We are so thankful for the opportunity and applaud those who provide us this opportunity to play,” Pullizano said. “It’ a great thing for us, to be able to play. It is great for these kids and means to much to them.”

Ben Franklin (2-0) will host Cabrini at 5:30 this evening while Ursuline (1-1) plays at Springfield Saturday at 10:30 a.m.

Area Prep Volleyball Results from Thursday, Sept. 10