3/2/2007

GIRLS VOLLEYBALL
The Santa Barbara Volleyball Club's 18-1 and 17-1 teams went undefeated in pool play last weekend and advanced in playoff action in Southern California Volleyball Assocation tournaments.

On Sunday the 18-1 team, coached by Jason Donnelly, earned a first-round playoff bye after going 3-0 in pool play, then won its second-round playoff match to secure a spot in Division 1. The team lost in the third round to the San Diego Volleyball Club's 18-1 team.

"We reached one of our early short term goals, getting into Division I," Donnelly said. "Now we have to continue working hard to ensure that we can stay there."

He praised the setting of Hannah Munneke, and the play of middle Kati Cattaneo and right side Eva Gabrielsen.

The 17-1 team, coached by Jake Hong, moved up to Division 4 after going 3-0 on Sunday.

"The team still kept their momentum that we gained in Vegas and played another great tourney," Hong said. "Setter Natalie Guerra made sure our hitters were getting the ball in a location where they could be successful. Katie Wilkes also played a key role with her serving and defense."

The 16-1 team, coached by Erica Downing, went 2-1 in pool play on Saturday, and lost in the first round of the playoffs to remain in Division 2.

"Everyone did their part," Downing said. "Jen Waddill came out with some great blocking. Setter Cara Spieler was steady as can be. We had a good tournament and now know we can play with the best of them."

The 16-2, coached by Tim Voth, went 1-2 in pool play, placing third to remain in Division 5.