1.    Marist (27-2): The Redhawks clinched at least a tie for first place in the East Suburban Catholic Conference with victories over Marian Catholic (25-15, 25-14) and Fenwick (25-19, 25-18). So, now all that stands between Marist and the outright title is Tuesday's match vs. Joliet Catholic Academy. Mallory Salis (190 kills) and Courtney Collins (152 kills) continue to put a charge in the Redhawks' attack at the net. Ashley Holder boasts a team-high total of 685 assists.

2.    Mother McAuley (23-6): The Mighty Macs handed West Chicago its first loss in the semifinals at Glenbard East's Autumnfest in a three-set thriller (25-18, 24-26, 25-14). The euphoria of that win didn't last long, though, as Benet topped Mother McAuley in the title match 25-23, 25-19. The Redwings used a powerful serve game to break down the Mighty Macs' passers. Sydney McPhillips (72 kills) and Lauren Grady (78 blocks) stand tall at the net for McAuley. Up next: Wednesday vs. Lyons Township.

3.    Sandburg (25-8): The Eagles soared to a second-place finish at the Maine West Pumpkin tournament and used a balanced attack to get the job done. Kara Kentner (145 kills), Amanda Kijewski (138), Megan Opferman (137) and Dakota Hampton (136) have been connecting on their swings at the net. Kentner had 33 kills and 75 assists at Maine West. Up next: at Homewood-Flossmoor Tuesday.

4.    Chicago Christian (22-10): The Knights won 4-of-5 matches and placed second at the Lincoln-Way Central Tournament. Included was a three-set victory over Lincoln-Way East (21-25, 25-18, 15-11). Junior libero Celaine Haan and junior middle hitter Becky DeRuiter were named to the all-tournament team. Haan has team-leading totals of 114 service receptions and 99 digs. Up next: Wednesday at St. Edward.

5.    Lincoln-Way North (20-12-1): Coach Mary Brown is looking forward, not in her rearview mirror; the past week was a bumpy one for her Phoenix. Yes, they reached the 20-victory plateau, but they also dropped matches to Andrew and Chicago Christian. Jackie Billie's serve game remains a strength for North. She has a team-high total of 229 points, including 54 aces. Ashley Pickert ranks first in solo blocks (38), second in kills (98) and third in aces (36). Up next: Tuesday at Lincoln-Way West.

(Covering the following Patch.com communities: Frankfort, New Lenox, Mokena, Oak Lawn, Orland Park, Palos, Tinley Park and the neighboring private schools that draw students-athletes from those communities).