Luckily for the Hornets, experience is something that can’t be ignored and Hinsdale South has plenty of that, as seven seniors count a combined 23 seasons on varsity.

“I think we were all a little mad and shocked after last season,” senior Jessica Brezwyn said. “The team got into training harder than we had before because we didn’t want last year repeating itself this year.’’

The Hornets averted a similar fate last week when they faced Riverside-Brookfield in the Argo regional final. After losing the first set, Hinsdale South recovered to capture the next two, squeaking out an exciting third set for the win.

“With us playing with each other for so long, it definitely helps when we play in tough situations,’’ said Colleen Lyons. “We trust each other and know who is going to be where and how we play.’’

Brezwyn, setter Sharon Anderson and outside hitter Rachel Kent have been on varsity all four years of their careers, while Catherine Pinas owns three seasons of varsity experience.

‘I’ve played with a few of these girls all four years and it really helps as a setter,’’ said Anderson, a four-year starter. “You know what type of ball they like and what they’re looking to do in certain types of situations.’’

Hinsdale South entered this postseason with a target on its back as the top seeded team in the Riverside-Brookfield sectional. The Hornets were to face Oak Lawn in the semifinal, with the winner advancing to Thursday’s match against either Hinsdale Central or St. Ignatius.

“We all understand the expectations and it helps us mesh on the court,’’ said Brezwyn. “Two years ago, it was always all-or-nothing situations and we were the underdogs. We experienced the potential we need for future years and now we know what needs to be done to be successful in the postseason.’’

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