Wahluke tripped up in volleyball

MATTAWA - The Wahluke High School volleyball team lost two matches last week, but one was a very good showing.

After falling to powerful Connell in three games, 25-16, 25-13, 25-8, the Warriors took Burbank to the wall, 25-15, 17-25, 19-25, 25-23, 17-15. Wahluke led, 2-1, in games, and forced overtime in the third game.

"Connell has a great volleyball program," coach Rudi Christian said. "The scores do not reflect our girls' efforts. There were competitive volleys throughout the games. We were just outmatched."

There were few offensive stats of which to speak. However, Lili Ramirez had a stellar night on defense with 12 digs.

The Burbank contest was different. There were Wahluke highlights to fill a gym.

"I was extremely proud of the girls. It was the best we've played as a team," Christian said. "We were competitive every play. It was fun to watch them battle during the long, intense volleys."

Marleny Garcia was on fired at the net, nailing 14 kills and executing three blocks. Kassandra Villalobos was all over the floor with 12 digs, six service aces and five kills.

Maripaz Olivarez had nine digs, Jessica Ledezma had seven aces and five digs, Tanya Mendez had 97 percent serving with five kills, Kenia Jamaica had 17/17 serving with six aces, and Ramirez had 14 digs.

"Even though we came up short, I would consider the level of intensity and skills the girls brought to the court a complete success," Christian said. "Burbank has been finishing as one of the top teams in the league the past few years. So coming this close to a team like that shows how much potential we have."