On August 13, 2024, during the first week of school, the JV and Varsity volleyball teams had their season openers on their home court.
The JV team kicked off the action, facing some initial challenges with their serve reception in the first set. Despite their efforts, the Warriors took the set 25-16, thanks to strong serving. However, the JV team regrouped in the second set, with freshman Alyssa Winegard delivering a series of aces that helped the Rangers gain a significant lead. The team showed great energy on the court, making impressive digs and kills, ultimately taking the set 25-20. Unfortunately, the Rangers couldn't maintain their momentum in the tiebreaker, falling 15-8 to the Warriors. Overall, it was a competitive match. Junior Varsity head coach Rynata Fonseca noted that while there were areas for improvement, she was encouraged by the strong plays from the JV team and is eager to see their growth throughout the season.
For the Varsity team, the excitement was palpable as fans rushed to form a pyramid line, sending good luck vibes before the girls hit the court. Senior captains Jeanique Davis and Evangeline Diaz won the coin toss, giving their team the first serve. The Varsity team controlled the first set with a dominant performance, tallying nine aces and securing a 25-14 victory. The second set began with some unforced errors, but Senior Jasmine Hottle turned things around with a crucial ace. As they headed into the third set, head coach CJ Upchurch reminded the team, "The third set is the most challenging because we're up 2-0, and they want it more than we do. We need to stay focused and finish the game." The team responded to his call, winning the set 25-15, highlighted by Sophomore defensive specialist Ava Beese, who racked up five aces in the third giving us the first win of the season.
Game Notes:
- Varsity won 3-0 (25-14, 25-17, 25-15).
- Sophomore captain and setter Kaelyn Sulyter-Coffey made an impressive debut as a varsity starter, dishing out 26 assists and controlling the game tempo.
- The Varsity team accumulated 25 aces overall.
- Sophomore middle hitter Melanie Rubinshteyn and junior middle blocker Sulianie Casella combined for 4 blocks and 10 kills.
- The Varsity team will participate in the AISD tournament next, while the JV team will have their next home match on Thursday, August 15.
- This is CJ Upchurch's first career win as a Varsity Head Coach.