Chicago White Sox catcher Carlton Fisk was on hand at Chick Evans Field House to compliment NIU’s volleyball team for its efforts in winning the North Star Conference title. Fish, however, had been pulling for Illinois-Chicago.

Fisk, whose daughter Carlyn started as setter for the Flames, said he was impressed with NIU’s size and blocking ability.

First Team All-conference seniors Cathy Holmes and Beth Glisk were the blockers to whom Fisk referred. UIC coach Don August was also quick to note NSC Most Valuable Player Holmes.

“She’s a class act all the way,” August said of Holmes. “She played outstanding. She was a very significant factor in NIU winning (the NSC title).”

NIU coach Pete Waite said he felt Holmes was “deserving of her honor.

“Cathy Holmes dominated the league all year and really earned it (MVP honors),” Waite said.

Although Holmes led at the net with five solo blocks and four block assists, NIU’s Julie Kreiling, Second-Team All-Conference, dominated in kills during the championship game. Kreiling connected on 15 of her 26 attempts, with one error.

“We weren’t able to stop Kreiling,” August said.

Waite said he was pleased that the Huskies had more players on the all-conference team than any of the other seven schools.

“I was happy we had so many players make all-conference,” Waite said. “It shows we had excellent depth and good players.

“This was a great way to end a season.”