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The Abington Heights boys volleyball team is the preseason favorite to win the Lackawanna League title after going undefeated last season and capturing the District 2 Class 3A championship. The Comets return a veteran lineup, including All-Region setter Ryan Horutz, but will have to replace standouts Shawn Theodore and Shane Brower. Valley View, Blue Ridge, and Western Wayne are expected to contend in the competitive league.
Why it matters
The Lackawanna League is historically one of the strongest high school boys volleyball conferences in Pennsylvania, and this season promises to be no different with several teams capable of making deep playoff runs. Abington Heights’ quest to defend its titles under a new coach will be closely watched, while other programs look to unseat the reigning champions.
The details
Abington Heights won the Lackawanna League and District 2 Class 3A titles last season, but has a new head coach in Jesse Edwards after longtime leader Jamie Spangler stepped down. The Comets return a veteran lineup, including All-Region setter Ryan Horutz, who had 596 assists, 31 aces, 31 blocks, and 110 digs last year. Other key returnees include Nolan Moore, Dan Beck, and Chris Cummins. The Comets will have to replace graduated standouts Shawn Theodore and Shane Brower. Valley View, Blue Ridge, and Western Wayne are all expected to contend for the league crown this spring.
The Lackawanna League boys volleyball season opens on March 24 with a rivalry match between Scranton and West Scranton.On March 26, defending champion Abington Heights visits Blue Ridge in a rematch of last year’s league opener, which the Comets won 3-0.Valley View and Blue Ridge square off on April 2 in a battle of experienced teams looking to challenge Abington Heights.Delaware Valley and Holy Redeemer, two of the top teams in the Wyoming Valley Conference, meet on April 23.Abington Heights hosts Valley View on April 28 in the final regular-season match between the Lackawanna League powers.
The players
Abington Heights
The defending Lackawanna League and District 2 Class 3A champion, looking to recapture the excitement of its title run last season.
Ryan Horutz
The All-Region setter for Abington Heights, who had 596 assists, 31 aces, 31 blocks, and 110 digs last season.
Valley View
Expected to contend for the Lackawanna League title, the Cougars reached the District 2 Class 2A quarterfinals last season.
Blue Ridge
Reached the District 2 Class 2A quarterfinals last season and returns several key players, including second-team all-star Bryce Conklin.
Western Wayne
Reached the District 2 Class 2A semifinals last season and looks to make an impact in the Lackawanna League race.
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What they’re saying
“We are a really high-serving team, and we have a good defense. We have to back things up with our blocking and developing our offense. The Lackawanna League will be competitive. It will be a fun conference and much different from last year.”
— Ryan Horutz, Abington Heights setter
“Coming off last year, we lost Shane and Shawn, who were two heavy hitters. Dan is really picking things up. Nolan is filling some shoes. Ben Reese and Gavin Corwin, Chris, these guys are back. I have to be the quarterback, play my position, and give the guys hittable balls.”
— Ryan Horutz, Abington Heights setter
What’s next
The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.
The takeaway
This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.