Russ Rose Then (2001): Hilary was banged up last year.  I feel Hilary’s ability to contribute is highly-correlated with her health, and she battled some obstcles in that area last year.  Nobody is more passionate about volleyball and competition than Hilary.  She is a fierce, competitive player that we hope will be able to stay healthy becuase she is someone we count on for solid passing and defensive skills.  Overall she is our most explosive player both defensively and offensively.

Russ Rose Now (2025): Hilary was an explosive, fast twitch player.  I loved how hard Hillary hit the ball. I mean, back when she was in club volleyball, there’d be a big crowd watching her court when she was playing because of how dynamic she was.  She jumped so well, so she kind of gave hope to the shorter people.  She was built like her dad — she had long arms.  Hillary could pass very well, she was a terrific defensive player, and she was a very strong attacker.

Before Penn State: Lettered two years at Crystal Lake Central before transferring ato Prairie Ridge High School; Was a two-year starter and captain; A “Fab 50” selection by Volleyball Magazine; A three-time all-conference selection; Named MVP her junior and senior years; A Chicago Tribune second-team all-state honoree; Named Player of the Year by the Northwest Herald; Voted all-area by the Chicago Times.

2001 News: “Sexton Plays Volleyball With Reckless Abandon,” Collegian, Sept. 20, 2001