Cathedral senior Hanchar plays through foot injury to chase state title

Caroline Hanchar has spent the entire volleyball season playing through a foot injury that requires surgery after the final match. The Cathedral senior serves as the team's defensive specialist and outside hitter. She has recorded more than 300 kills, which is the highest total on the squad. Hanchar also ranks second on the team in digs.

The Fighting Irish secured a regional title last weekend. This marked the first such victory for the program in ten years. The team now holds a 24-10 record. They will face Batesville this Saturday, October 31, at 6 p.m. A win on Saturday sends the Irish to the semi-state tournament.

Hanchar stated that the team relies on strong bonds to push through the season. She described the group as close and free of drama. Each player works to improve the others during practice and games. The senior said the squad wants a semi-state title to complete a special run.

Head coach Karrie Quenichet noted that Hanchar's enthusiasm impacts the whole roster. Quenichet observed that many athletes experience physical and mental fatigue from year-round play. Hanchar plays because she enjoys the sport itself. Quenichet said this positive energy spreads to the other players.

The coach explained that Hanchar could have stepped back from the game due to her foot. It would have been easier to rest during the injury. Instead, the senior chose to remain on the court for her friends and school. Quenichet said Hanchar wanted to be present for the Cathedral community.

The team prepares for the Batesville match with a focus on collective effort. Hanchar believes the group must play for one another to succeed. A victory Saturday advances the Irish to the next round of the state tournament. The squad aims to reach the semi-state stage for the first time in a decade.