Needing only 3 sets, the boys’ volleyball team dispatched Rio Americano High School in the NorCal Championship game, earning the title for the 4th consecutive year, at Dublin High School on May 30. The victory puts an explanation point on a season in which the Cougars were a mainstay in the national rankings.
“We practiced hard all week,” said junior Sean Yamamoto. “We knew what was at stake, especially for the seniors. They’ve won four NorCal titles in a row, and we just wanted to complete their legacy.”
“I thought we did really well. We had some trouble with heckling but mostly we stayed strong,” said sophomore Gage Worsley, referring to the chants from Rio Americano fans.
In the first set, the battle was close, with Rio Americano picking up 19 points to Campolindo’s 25. But in the second set, the Cougars allowed their opponents only 11 points. They carried that momentum through the remainder of the match.
“I think the MVP [Most Valuable Player] was Michael Standring. He was always there at the right time with the right plays,” said Yamamoto.
In spite of the impressive 3-set victory, Yamamoto was quick to be critical of his team’s play. “I think we could have improved on making less errors. I know that a lot of serving errors happened which is something that you don’t want to happen in a championship match,” he said.
“I think we could have worked a little bit on blocking,” added Worsley.
Worsley understands that a team like this doesn’t come around often. “This group is really special. I don’t think [we’ll be as succsessful in the future],” he said.
Yamamoto said that though their performance wasn’t perfect, the most important thing was getting the win.
According to MaxPreps.com, the team finishes the season ranked 5th in the United States.
