PJP II All-State players Madison Monahan and Natalie Ricevuto

Having talent is one thing, having team chemistry is another.  The Pope John Paul II girls volleyball team had both.  "Being able to play with people you trust really helps and makes us even better," Natalie Ricevuto told SV Sports' Paul Roberts.  The Golden Panthers beat previously undefeated Hampton 3-1 in the Class 3A state championship. PJP II earned its second straight state title.  The Golden Panthers have won 54 consecutive matches!  They only lost three sets all season.  Hampton took the second set 25-21 in the state final at Cumberland Valley High School.  PJP II bounced back quickly and won the third set 25-15.  The (27-0) Golden Panthers closed out the match 25-20 in the fourth set.  "Our team culture was so unmatched and everything was so much fun. It's such a great group of girls and our bus rides were probably the best memories that I made," said Ricevuto.  The 6'1 All-State outside hitter had more than 300 kills this year and 810 for her career.  She's committed to Bryant University in Rhode Island.  PJP II has claimed five District 1 championships in a row.  All-State setter Madison Monahan had over 800 assists this season and more than 1,800 for her career.  The 5'9 senior is headed to William & Mary, but she will never forget her time with the Golden Panthers.  "I think I'll remember most the connections that we made off of the court, outside of volleyball," replied Monahan.