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Ely’s Lilli Rechichi has been a force at the net, causing nightmares for the Timberwolves’ volleyball opponents and helping her team become a force to be reckoned with at the state level.
That work didn’t go unnoticed, as the Ely senior has won a spot on Minnesota’s all-state volleyball team.
Rechichi, the Wolves’ standout middle hitter, is one of 22 players to be named to the All-State Class A Team, as selected by the state’s volleyball coaches association.
It is believed to be the first time ever that Ely has had an all-state volleyball honoree.
The recognition comes as the Wolves inch closer to a third state tournament berth - with the Section 7A finals slated for Saturday at Hermantown.
Rechichi has played a monumental role in Ely’s success this season - with the Wolves currently 26-3 - and throughout a decorated high school career.
“Lilli has had a huge impact on our team over the last four years,” said head coach Megan Wognum. “Lilli has offered a sense of drive and passion for the sport and has encouraged others to have the same drive and passion.”
Rechichi had a whopping 15 kills in Ely’s 7A quarterfinal win over Chisholm on Oct. 25, and she has averaged nearly 10 per game, amassing 282 kills in the Wolves’ first 29 games.
With Rechichi anchoring the Ely middle and hammering home kill after kill, she has led a multifaceted Wolves offense while maintaining her drive for the game.
“Lilli has put a lot of time into volleyball in the off-season and has challenged her teammates to do so as well,” said Wognum. “This is what builds us up as a team. Her passion for the sport can be seen in every game she plays. She is always challenging herself and her teammates in practice and games. She is always willing to try new things to make herself better. She is always focused on the game ahead of her and willing to learn from her mistakes. She makes the most of every ball whether she’s hitting a quick set or tipping it to an open spot. Lilli is confident, resilient, disciplined, focused, and driven.”
In both her sophomore and junior years, Rechichi earned All-Arrowhead Conference recognition and has also been selected to play in area all-star games.
This fall, Rechichi has 195 digs, 56 ace serves and 49 total blocks - including 17 solo.
“I am so proud of Lilli,” said Wognum. “She has worked hard and deserves to be part of the All-State team.”
Rechichi will be honored as an all-state honoree this week in St. Paul, during the banquet held prior to the start of the state tournament.
