3/9/2007

GIRLS VOLLEYBALL

The 12-1 team of the Santa Barbara Volleyball Club continued its hot play,winning its third straight tournament over the weekend in Anaheim.

"Every player contributed to the day," said Greg Novak, who was filling in for regular coach K.C. Collins. "This team has great court sense for their age and play with passion and competitiveness."

In other news, the SBVC's 14-1 squad is currently ranked second in the Southern California Volleyball Association (out of about 270 teams). In their latest tournament, the 14-1s won their pool and two playoff games before falling in the finals to Laguna Beach.

"The team continues to improve and the chemistry with the girls is very positive," said coach Liz Towne-Gibert.

Jake Hong's 15-1 team remained in Division 1 by winning a cross-over playoff match in Anaheim. Hong praised the play of Maddie Hamilton and Sammie Brown.

The 15-2 squad reached the semifinals and lost to Reef 25-22. The team remains in Division 3. Jessie Ditmore, Torrie Armstrong and Alyssa Dobrotin were praised by coach Novak.

Courtney Preston's 15-3 team finished second in pool play to remain in Division 8. Preston noted the play of Paulina King, Skyler Jacobsen and Sam Flattery.

The 13-1 team of Ed Gover will remain in Division 2 after its recent tournament. Gover singled out Amanda Harvey, Paige Hawkins, Tristan Racich and Kira Schleich.

Collins' 14-2 squad moved up from Division 7 to 6 after placing first in pool play. The team finished in a three-way tie but it was declared the champion based on having lost only two games in the tournament.

The 13-2 squad rallied from a first set loss and finished tied for first in its pool. Coach Tina Brown lauded the play of McKenna Hogue, Iris Campbell and Laura Masho.