Russ Rose Then (1999): Hilary is as exciting of an outside hitter as we’ve had at Penn State in a number of years.  She hits the ball very hard, is very explosive and plays the game with a passion, and that’s something we were very excited about.

Russ Rose Now (2025): Hilary was an explosive, fast twitch player.  I loved how hard Hilary 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.  Hilary could pass very well, she was a terrific defensive player, and she was a very strong attacker.  She’s still giving back as a high school and club coach.

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.

1999 News: “Sexton Shines in Relief” — Collegian, Oct. 7, 1999