Presenting: 2023 Clarion Herald Elite Volleyball team

Above, MVP selections are Camryn Chatellier, Dominican, left; and Sophia Bonnafee, Archbishop Hannan, right.

By Ron Brocato
Clarion Herald

Two of Louisiana’s finest high school volleyball players just happen to be the daughters of their respective schools’ head coaches.

Both honored as the LHSAA State Volleyball Tournament’s Most Outstanding Players in their divisions, Camryn Chatellier of Dominican and Archbishop Hannan’s Sophia Bonnaffee were standard bearers for two state championship teams that enjoyed a combined record of 84-4 for the 2023 season.

Under coach Jessica Chatellier, Dominican (43-2) won its fourth consecutive Division I title on Nov. 11 by defeating No. 2 seed Mount Carmel, 3-1 in the championship match that ended in a 33-31 final set.

Equally proficient on offense or defense, Camryn recorded 21 kills for the match to earn the top individual honor.

For the season, the senior accrued 595 kills with 58 aces, 32 blocks and 477 digs on defense.

Rebekka Bonnaffee coached Hannan to a 41-2 record and its third Division III championship in four years.

Her daughter, Sophia, was the team’s stalwart throughout the season.

Statistically, the senior was remarkable in all facets of the game. She totaled 662 kills, assisted 18 points as a setter and scored 58 points on aces.

On the receiving end, Bonnaffee blocked two shots and accounted for 477 digs.

The Elite team consists of 12 standout players who were instrumental in leading their teams to successful seasons that culminated with appearances in the prestigious state tournament.

The team was selected and photographed by Ron Brocato.

Emily Caracci
Mount Carmel