Topich continues tradition of strong setters for North Allegheny volleyball

By: Josh Rizzo
Thursday, April 11, 2019 | 10:17 PM

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Sava Topich is the latest in a long line of North Allegheny volleyball players tasked with taking over the mantle at a tradition-laden position.

But Tigers coach Dan Schall doesn’t expect Topich, a senior setter, to be like AJ Schmidt or MJ Barton. History won’t make this year’s offense go.

Topich and his teammates must accomplish that.

“It’s exciting,” Topich said. “At NA, we always have great setters, and I’m confident with the preparation I’ve had.”

Thus far, the Tigers done more than keep pace. North Allegheny improved to 4-0 in Section 2-AAA and 5-0 overall after beating Shaler, 3-0, last Tuesday. The defending PIAA champion Tigers have now won 28 straight matches.

Topich handed out 34 assists in the win over the Titans. Fellow seniors Drew Hunker contributed 14 kills and seven blocks, while Alex Zubro finished with seven kills and seven blocks.

“I’m really excited for this class,” Schall said. “Some of them have had to wait a long time for a chance. Last year, we had a deep and talented senior class. Certainly, the years of competing against those guys in practice helped them.”

Having setters ready in the pipeline is something the Tigers try to identify early in their development. Schall said Topich set himself apart by having great hands from a young age. During North Allegheny’s state title run last year, Topich played a key role in the Tigers win over Warwick.

“We’ve had a lot of talented setters,” Schall said. “We try to ID those guys early who have talent. They have to compete with each other for spots, but it’s a legacy each guy passes along. I’m sure AJ Schmidt enjoys the success Sava is having this year. I know guys embrace the challenge.”

Topich has handed out a team-high 372 assists. All of those assists have been put down by a balanced group of hitters.

Hunker leads the team with 128 kills, but the top next three options are grouped tight. Ben Mendes is second with 67 kills, while Jeremiah Zemet has 66 and Zubrow has 63.

“It helps having a strong team,” Topich said. “I’m confident setting the ball anywhere. I am confident in the hitters. It also helps having (libero) Trevor (Treser) in the back row.”

As the season goes on, Topich hopes to deliver on the challenge of continuing the storied tradition.

These guys are driven after having to wait for an opportunity.

“Especially after the strong class last year,” Topich said. “Everyone had the ability to step on the court, and we had to wait our turn. Everyone the on the bench this year has a chance to play; we are confident they can step in, too.”

Tags: North Allegheny