2/29/2008

GIRLS VOLLEYBALL

Santa Barbara's 16- and 15-elite teams went undefeated in their final qualifying tournaments and will start the Southern California Volleyball Association regular season in Division 1.

The 16-Elites were led by Emily Rottman and Sammie Brown, said coach Erica Downing.

Jake Hong, coach of the 15-Elites, praised the play of Sally Yingst and Lauren Capritto.

Santa Barbara's 12-1 squad won first place in its pool, vaulting it to Division 2. Emi Parker and Hannah Brisby were recognized by coach Jordyn Druary.

In other action, the 15-1 team will play in Division 3 after finishing third in its last qualifier. Coach Chris Webb lauded the play and leadership of Lillie Hodges.

Mara Murrillo and Larkin McCormack played well for coach Molly Taylor's 15-2 team after going 2-1 in pool play. The team will play in Division 6.

Greg Novak's 16-1 team will start in Division 3. Novak singled out the play of Torrie Armstrong, Heidi Vandenoever and Jessie Ditmore.

Bart Kowalski praised Christina Miller and Sam Flattery for their play on the 16-2 squad, which will start the season in Division 7.