Penn State wills itself to a third consecutive Championship.

Tampa - For those of you that saw the 5 set thriller between Penn State and Texas, congratulations you are witnesses to Women's Volleyball history in the making.
Penn State became the first team to win three straight volleyball titles Saturday night, overcoming a two-set deficit to beat Texas in five and extend its record winning streak to 102 straight games.

When Texas won the first two sets it looked like Penn State's incredible run was going to come to an end. After half time Penn State came out strong and was able to adjust their serve receive of Texas and generate their offense more efficiently.

Megan Hodge led the Nittany Lions (38-0) with 21 kills, including the final one that touched off a wild celebration at midcourt.

"They just won three national championships in a row," Penn State coach Russ Rose said. "Not a lot of people have done stuff like that. Our seniors just willed us to the win."

Penn State's 22-25, 20-25, 25-23, 25-21, 15-13 win helped it stake a claim as one of the greatest, if not the greatest, volleyball team in NCAA history. And maybe one of the best college teams ever.

The winning streak is second in Division I team sports behind the Miami men's tennis program's 137 straight victories from 1957-64.

The Nittany Lions led 22-19 in the first set and were on the brink of going ahead early. Then Texas called timeout, regrouped and rallied for six straight points to put Penn State behind, an unfamiliar position during most of its incredible run.

The Nittany Lions had only lost six sets this season entering the final match, although one of those came in the semifinals against Hawaii, before dropping the first two to Texas.

But Penn State regained its serving prowess and cruised through the next two sets and had only a few miscues in the final set before closing out the Longhorns.

Destinee Hooker had a game-high 34 kills for Texas (an NCAA Record in a finals match), which was trying to claim its first volleyball title since 1988.

Penn State hasn't lost since falling to Stanford in September 2007.

CLUB SEASON:

With the official end to the 2009 Womens Collegiate Season, we officially kick of the USAV Club season in South Florida after the Holidays.

NCAA Championship Match: Penn State vs. Texas

The NCAA Women's Volleyball Championship will be played in Tampa this Saturday at 8:00PM on ESPN2. We highly recommend that you make the time to watch the match with your daughters and focus on key players to see how the best play certain positions.

The Championship match places No.1 Penn State (37-0) vs. No. 2 Texas (29-1). These are clearly the best teams almost boasting perfection with a combined winning record of (66-1). Speaking of perfection, Penn State is on the longest winning streak in women's NCAA sports history at 101 consecutive matches.

Match Preview:

Both of these team are similarly matched with a great combination of size, athleticism, coaching and experience. Most experts are predicting that Penn State will win the match and it's third consecutive Championship. A Penn State victory in four sets is not unrealistic.

I almost sense an upset brewing in that Penn State is going for an unprecedented third consecutive championship and an unprecedented 102 consecutive victory. I'm not sure if they can overcome all that they have to deal with and overcome a talented Texas team. If they do win, please realize that you will be looking at something that might never happen again in women's collegiate sports.

University of Texas:

Senior All-America outside hitter Destinee Hooker has shined in postseason play, hammering out 5.50 kills, collecting 2.19 digs and 1.00 blocks per-set, while hitting .439 in five matches ... Texas is hitting .386 as a team in the tourney and has held opponents to a .169 attack mark ... junior middle blocker Jennifer Doris leads the team at the net with a club-best 17 total blocks ... senior All-America setter/opposite Ashley Engle is averaging 2.00 kills, 7.75 assists and 2.12 digs per-set in five matches.

Penn State University:

Players to keep an eye on: All American (MB)Megan Hodge is a future USA Olympian and the Senior leader and prominent striker on the team. Setter Alisha Glass is the nations leader in assists and is a team leader. TIDBIT: The no. 2 setter in the Nation is FIU's Natalia Valentine. Blair Brown 6'5" is a dominant right side that virtually stopped Hawaii's attach in the semi-finals. Look to see if Brown can slow down Hooker from Texas.

Stats from Penn State vs. Hawaii: Three Nittany Lions posted double-digit kills. Senior Megan Hodge (Durham, N.C.) led the squad with 12, while juniors Arielle Wilson (Broadview, Ill.) and Blair Brown (Purcellville, Va.) had 11 and 10 kills, respectively. Senior setter Alisha Glass (Leland, Mich.) dished out 41 helpers and attacked at a team-leading .692 with nine kills on 13 errorless swings.

Prediction: My fingers are crossed for Penn State, I would really enjoy seeing sports history but part of me says Penn State is facing so much, including a very talented and loose team.

Scenario 1 - If the match goes four or less sets: Penn State Wins

Scenario 2 - If the match goes to five sets: Texas Wins

SEE AN ESPN VIDEO PREVIEW OF THE CHAMPIONSHIP MATCH

NCAA Final Four in Tampa

Yet another national volleyball event comes to Florida. The NCAA Women's Volleyball Final four and Championship come to Tampa, FL. December 18th and 19th respectfully.

This is a great opportunity to see the best collegiate teams and players in the sport. If your thinking of going to Tampa and seeing the event first hand please CLICK HERE for more Information.

If you are unable to see the matches in person, we highly recommend that you watch the games as a family and go over plays and positioning with your kids (players). What better model to follow than learning from the best.

This year the matches will be televised on ESPN2.

Thursday - December 17th, Match-Ups

Texas vs. Minnesota at 7:00P.M.

Preview: Two similar teams in size but Texas seems to be the more athletic of the two. Expect a strong attack from Texas.

Prediction: Texas wins in four.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Penn State vs. Hawaii at 9:00P.M. or 1/2 hour after the first match.

Preview: Hawaii is a smaller athletic team much like that of FIU. Penn State has to much of everything, size, athleticism, experience and coaching.

Prediction: Penn State wins in three

Florida State University advances to the ELITE 8

In the State of Florida it is usually the University of Florida that goes the furthest in the NCAA tournament. Is 2009 a sign of things to come as Florida State defeats the University of Kentucky to advance to the ELITE 8.

The University of Florida had a tough time facing 2007 and 2008 NCAA CHampion as Penn State defeated Florida in three sets. Congratulations to the Lady Gators for yet another sweet 16 appearance in the Div I Tournament.

________________________________________________________

MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. - And the dream season continues.

The No. 12 Florida State volleyball defeated No. 13 Kentucky 3-2 (16-25, 26-24, 25-17, 19-25, 17-15) Friday night in the third round of the NCAA Championship at the University of Minnesota's Sports Pavilion.

With the thrilling triumph, the Seminoles (31-2) advance to the Elite Eight for the first time in program history and will face the winner of Friday night's Minnesota vs. Colorado State match live on ESPNU Saturday at 6:30 p.m. ET.

In the decisive fifth set, the teams switched benches at the eighth point after Stephanie Neville's kill gave FSU an 8-6 lead. Mira Djuric's kill moved the FSU advantage to 11-8 and the Wildcats' (29-5) coaching staff was forced to call a timeout.

The short break worked in UK's favor as the team scored back-to-back points to make it an 11-10 score. But reigning ACC Player of the Year Brianna Barry's key solo block pushed the Seminole lead up to 12-10.

See the video of the teams celebration and post match comments by CLICKING HERE

Two Florida Universities make it to the Sweet 16's of the NCAA Tournament

It is exciting to know that two teams from Florida; Florida Gators and Florida State Seminoles have a chance to compete in the Final Four!!

The Sweet 16 of Volleyball is this weekend, December 11th and 12th. Both UF and FSU face tough matches on Friday.


NCAA Southeast Regional: Four of the sixteen teams will be playing in Gainesville Friday at 3:30pm , Baylor vs. California , ranked 9th in the nation. Penn State , ranked #1 in the nation and last years champion, will be competing against The Florida Gators - ranked 16th, at 6pm on Friday in the O’Connell Center.

Florida State the top seed in this bracket and the ACC champion will be playing in Minneapolis , Minnesota , against a talented Kentucky team (SEC Champion) on Friday December 11th.

See a great Video of FSU in Minneapolis on Seminoles.com

Winners of these two games will be competing Saturday, December 12th at 4pm in the Regional finals to participate in the Final Four in Tampa .

You can see The NCAA Volleyball Bracket by clicking here:

Stay tuned to the report to see how our Florida teams do and follow the tournament to see who will be in the Final Four in Tampa.

SPECIAL THANKS TO GUEST WRITER CRISTY MACHADO WHO TOOK THE TIME TO HIGHLIGHT THE TWO FLORIDA UNIVERSITIES THAT ARE STILL COMPETING IN THE NCAA DIV I TOURNAMENT.

Help us keep Sand Volleyball in the NCAA...

Every Vote Counts

Sand Volleyball has been approved as a college sport, but in January there will be another vote held to OVERRIDE this approval. Beach Volleyball has come so far, help us, as we support it becoming a NCAA sport. Here's a chance to make a difference and support a sport that we all love. In addition it opens more opportunities for scholarships for Volleyball players.

We need your support and your vote and it will only take 30 seconds of your time.
If you have already voted, don't worry, you can vote again AND forward to every volleyball enthusiast you know so they can vote as well.

Help us keep Sand Volleyball in the NCAA...


TO VOTE - CLICK HERE.

Middle School Playoffs: Miami Dade

On Wednesday Dec 3rd, the Middle School Divisional Playoffs got underway at Tamiami Park on the outside hard courts. The top eight teams that had survived the earlier round of the playoffs would all converge at one location to determine a South Dade and a North Dade Champion.

Eight Varsity teams and six Junior Varsity teams had made it this far but only one Champion from the North and South would have their season extended for one more match for both Varsity and JV.

It might not have been the best day to play volleyball outside due to the high winds and threat of rain but you could tell by looking at all the young ladies present that they were all very excited to be at this playoff event sharing the court with 14teams.

Besides the fact that the matches were outside, it was similar to a USAV club event in that the girls were able to observe other matches. For those who do play club, they were able to see many friends on opposing teams. In all, the day's action will hopefully be something every player remembers regardless of who won or lost.


Of course there were winners with Palmetto d Carver for the South Championship and Filer d. Miami Springs in the North Championship.



Arvida's JV captured the South's Championship, Coached by Jerry and Joy Beverly.


Next Week both the North and South Champions will meet at the Miami Springs high school gym to determine both the Miami Dade County Champions for varsity and JV. We wish the best of luck to the teams that will advance to the county championship match.

Top 10 Middle School Varsity Teams for Miami Dade County:

1) Palmetto/Filer
2) Filer/Palmetto
3) Carver
4) Miami Springs
5) Rockway
6) Glades
7) Palm Springs
8) Country Club
9) Mas Canosa
10) Hialeah

Below are a few pictures of the days action. (Click on any Image to enlarge it).

The FIU Golden Panthers outlasted UM in a Five set Thriller

GAINESVILLE, Fla. - The FIU volleyball team notched its second NCAA Tournament victory in school history on Thursday evening as the Panthers defeated cross-town rival Miami, 3-2 (25-16, 20-25, 22-25, 27-25, 15-11), in the opening round of the 2009 NCAA Division I Women's Volleyball Championship at the O'Connell Center in Gainesville, Fla.

With the win, the Panthers improve to 32-3 on the season and advance to the NCAA Tournament Second Round where they will face winner of tonight's match between No. 14 Florida and College of Charleston. The second round match is set for Friday, Dec. 4, at 7 p.m. and can be viewed for free at www.gatorvision.tv. Live stats will be available at www.gatorzone.com.

FIU ran out to an early 5-0 lead in the first set but Miami fought back to tie the score at 13-13. A Hurricane net violation made it 14-13 in favor of the Panthers before senior Isadora Rangel tallied a kill on a pass from junior Natalia Valentin to give FIU a 15-13 lead.

Following a media timeout, FIU recorded a kill and gained a point on a Miami attack error to increase the Panthers' advantage to 17-13. The Hurricanes called a timeout of their own and tallied a pair of points out of the break before senior Olga Vergun slammed home a kill from the right side to put the score at 18-15. FIU then recorded a block to take a 19-15 lead and a Miami attack error made it 20-15.

Another Hurricane attack error put FIU on top by six at 21-15 to force a Miami timeout and, out of the break, the Panthers recorded three straight points to put themselves in set-point position at 24-15. The Hurricanes managed one more point but Rangel registered a kill from the left side to give FIU a 15-16 first-set win.

Up 1-0 for the match, the Panthers didn't let up, making numerous hustle plays and converting on long rallies to take a 15-12 lead. The Hurricanes then went on an 8-0 run to put the score at 20-15 before a kill from freshman Jovana Bjelica ended the run. Miami retaliated with a point to put the score at 21-16 and senior Ines Medved recorded a kill from the left side to bring FIU within four, but Miami tallied two straight points to put the score at 23-17.

Senior Yarimar Rosa would then tally a kill but Miami countered with a kill of its own to get to set-point at 24-18. Rosa struck again from the left side and a Hurricane attack error made the score 24-20, but Miami was able to register its final point to take the set, 25-20, and tie the match at 1-1.

Miami ran out to a 15-10 lead in the third set but FIU clawed back to within three at 15-12 before a Hurricane kill put the deficit back to four at 16-12. A Miami service error put the score at 16-13 but the Hurricanes got the next point to go ahead by four once again. Rosa slammed home a kill from the left side to make it 17-14 but a Panther service error put the score at 18-14 before Medved scored on a tip to bring FIU within three again at 18-15.

The teams traded points and with Miami on top at 19-16, the Hurricanes were called for a pair of violations as FIU got within one at 19-18. Miami took a 20-18 lead on a kill before Vergun slammed home a hard kill from the right side to make it 20-19 and the teams then traded scores once more to make the score 21-20. Rosa then knotted the score at 21-21 with a kill from the left side.

Following a Miami timeout, the Hurricanes went ahead by two at 23-21 but a kill by sophomore Andrea Lakovic brought the Panthers within one at 23-22. A Miami kill put the Hurricanes in set-point position and they managed one more point to take the set, 25-22, and go ahead 2-1 for the match.

The fourth set saw both squads battle back and forth and the score was tied at 18-18 before FIU took a 19-18 lead. Following a Miami timeout, the Hurricanes tallied three points to go ahead, 21-19 and force an FIU timeout.

The Panthers came out of the break and knotted the score at 21-21 before Lakovic scored on a tip to give FIU a 22-21 lead. A Hurricane attack error put the Panthers on top by two at 23-21 but Miami was able to retaliate and tie the score at 23-23 before going ahead by one at 24-23. FIU tied the score at 24-24 but Miami went ahead on a kill at 25-24. Rosa then scored twice from the left side to put FIU in set-point position at 26-25 and then combined with sophomore Sabrina Gonzalez for a block to give the Panthers at 27-25 set-win.

With the match tied at 2-2, the final set saw both teams come out strong. FIU took a 9-7 lead before Valentin connected with Bjelica on the left side for a kill to make it 10-7. Miami then recorded two points to come within one at 10-9 and force an FIU timeout.

Out of the break, the teams traded points to make the score 11-10 in favor of the Panthers. A Hurricane violation gave FIU a point and a kill by Rosa put the Panthers ahead by three at 13-10. Miami registered a kill to come within two at 13-11 before Rosa struck again from the right side to put FIU in match-point position at 14-11. Rosa's third straight kill closed out the match to give FIU a 15-11 set-win and a 3-2 match victory.

For the complete story Visit FIU.com or CLICK HERE.

You can also Visit the Gator Zone by CLICKING HERE

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Preview of FIU vs UF

FIU will now play UF in a game that I personally have been anticipating ever since I had the pleasure of traveling to Gainesville, FL. this year. Many people in Miami have thought that FIU has the talent to defeat the mighty Lady Gators. Hopefully FIU can rise to the occasion and correct errors that allowed today's match to be much closer than it should have been.

The Florida Gators

You can count on two facts:

1) The O'Connell Center will be filled to capacity with fans that expect FIU to become that days "Gator Bait".



2) Coach Mary Wise will have her team focused on shutting down FIU's Strength's






The FIU Golden Panthers



Coach Danijela Tomic will have the team prepared to defeat the UF team both emotionally and technically. The "X" factor will be the players ability to stay loose while raising their games to the highest levels because UF will most certainly try to control Yarimar Rosa's hitting. Defenders must react quicker on tips and improve their spacing because there were to many holes against UM tonight.

We will post the link to tmrw's 7:00PM match.

FIU and UM are both going to the NCAA Tournament

This is a very joyous ocation for South Florida in that both Florida International University (FIU) and the University of Miami (UM) are both NCAA bound.

FIU - With the announcement of the NCAA Division I Women's Volleyball Championship bracket on Sunday, FIU received its second straight and third overall bid to the NCAA Tournament in school history.

FIU (31-3) will travel to Gainesville, Fla., to face crosstown rival Miami (18-12) in a first round match on Thursday, Dec. 3 at the Stephen C. O'Connell Center. Should the Panthers advance, they will face the winner of a contest between Florida (23-5) and College of Charleston (18-12) on Dec. 4 in the second round.

"We're very excited to have earned a bid to the NCAA Tournament and we're all grateful for the chance to get to play another match together," said senior Yarimar Rosa. "I'm really looking forward to it."

UM - On Sunday afternoon, the University of Miami volleyball team (18-12) received its second NCAA Tournament appearance with an at-large bid out of the Atlantic Coast Conference, as announced by the NCAA Selection Committee as part of the tournament selection show.

An Atlantic Coast Conference record five league teams--highlighted by third overall seed Florida State--were selected to the 2009 NCAA Volleyball Championship. In addition to FSU, Duke, Georgia Tech, Clemson, and Miami earned at-large berths in this year's tournament to become the first group of five teams to be selected to the NCAA championship in the 29-year history of volleyball in the ACC.

Florida State, Duke, and Clemson will be competing in the Minneapolis Regional bracket, while Georgia Tech and Miami reside in the Gainesville Regional bracket.

General - Defending National Champion Penn State received the tournament's overall No. 1 seed with Texas earning the No. 2 seed, Florida State the No. 3 seed and Stanford the No. 4 seed. Regional competition will be held at predetermined sites on Dec. 11 & 12 with the semifinals set for Dec. 17 and the NCAA Championship match slated for Dec. 19 in Tampa, Fla.

For Ticket Information, please CLICK HERE

Make Sure You See FIU's Last Home Match this Season

Make your plans to attend FIU's last home match of the season at U.S. Century Bank Arena as they host Florida A & M at 1:00PM. This will be a very special day as FIU bids farewell to three talented and beloved seniors, OH - Yarimar Rosa, OH - Isadora rangel and RS - Olga Vergun. In addition FIU is in the midst of a very special season (30-3)and NCAA Tournament Bound. The 30 wins is a new team record breaking last years mark of 29. If that were not enough - they are playing a talented opponent that is also NCAA tournament bound as the MEAC conference champion.


I can still remember when I first saw an FIU Volleyball match a few years ago and here's this young lady - #3 that was able to hoover in the air before striking the ball such vigor that a loud BOOM reverberated through-out the arena. Of course many of you know her as "Yari". This Saturday will be the last time that Yarimar Rosa will play before the home crowd. She will leave FIU as the career record holder in Kills with over 2,000 as well as many others. Follow FIU.Com as they are sure to post her many accomplishments.

Olga Vergun #7 is a talented RS that has been instrumental to the team's success this year. She has great court awareness and is a strong striker from any place on the court. Last year she was injured. Both she and Isadora Rangel were major contributors to FIU's success during Rosa's absence due to injury. Isadora Rangel was a transfer player last year and played an important role as a striker for FIU in winning the Sun Belt Conference in 2008 and this year.

All three players will be missed greatly after this season. The level of greatness will be most measured on how they and the team perform in this years NCAA Tournament. Will a Sweet 16 solidify their greatness?

To see the senior profile on Olga Vergun - CLICK HERE

To see the senior profile on Isadora Rangel - CLICK HERE

In addition FIU is playing against 9 time MEAC Conference Champion: Florida A & M. Both teams will be moving forward to the NCAA Tournament and might even be paired against one-another in the Southern Regional. The match should be very competitive.

Be sure that you show your appreciation for such a great season to the FIU team and it's coaches. If you can make signs and plenty of noise, that would be great. After the match take the time and go down to the court and congratulate as many players as you can, all of the players and coaches are very approachable and a joy to talk too.

Follow FIU during their march through the NCAA Tournament on FIU.com with a Panther Pass.

The University of Miami Closes out the Season with a Loss.

Coral Gables, Fla. - Sophomore Lane Carico posted a match-high 20 kills while Christine Williamson added 13 more, but it wasn't enough Wednesday afternoon as the University of Miami volleyball team fell to rival Florida State, 3-1 (24-26, 25-16, 25-19, 25-16), in ACC action at the James L. Knight Sports Complex in Coral Gables, Fla.

Miami (18-12, 11-9 ACC) opened the match on fire as Lane Carico and Christine Williamson, both sophomore outside hitters for the `Canes, combined for 13 kills to give UM the thrilling 26-24 first set victory.

Florida State (28-2, 19-1 ACC) countered Miami's strong play in the opener by hitting a match-high .435 clip (14-4-23) in the second set as Rachael Morgan posted five kills and Brianna Barry supplied three more for the Seminoles. FSU battled back from an early deficit to collect a 25-16 win, knotting the match at 1-1 heading into the intermission.

The Hurricanes fought tough in the third set behind seven kills, taking an early 8-4 lead before Morgan and Mira Djuric registered four kills apiece to tie the set at 12-12. Back-to-back kills from Djuric ended the set, giving FSU the 25-19 set-win.

That set victory put FSU on top in the match, 2-1.

In the fourth set, once again Miami played tough behind solid play from Carico, but FSU's Morgan tallied six of her team-high 17 kills en route to the `Noles swinging a .345 clip in the frame. The Seminoles collected the set- and match-victory with a 25-16 advantage.

FSU was led on the day by Morgan's 17 kills, while three more Seminoles added eight kills each. The two-setter system of Nikki Baker and Duygu Duzceler combined for 43 assists--Baker leading the way with 24. Libero Jenna Romanelli had a team-high 11 digs on defense.

Miami was led by Carico's match-high 20 kills and 12 digs, giving the Manhattan Beach, Calif., native her 19th double-double of the year. Williamson added 13 kills and four assisted blocks, and setter Nrithya Sundararaman had 43 assists and three blocks.

Senior libero Cassie Loessberg, in her last game as a Hurricanes student-athlete, had a match-high 14 digs.

Today's match wrapped up a disappointing season for the Hurricanes, collecting consecutive 18-win campaigns under ninth-year head coach Nicole Lantagne Welch. The `Canes finished the season at 18-12, and ended the ACC slate with a record of 11-9.

Having won the ACC title, FSU will await their next opponent for the upcoming NCAA Tournament when the selection is announced next week.

U.S. Women Slotted with Cuba in 2010 FIVB World Championship Opening Pool

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (Nov. 24, 2009) - The U.S. Women's National Volleyball Team was placed into Pool C of the 2010 FIVB Women's World Championship Tournament that will be held Oct. 29 to Nov. 14 in various Japanese cities.

Team USA, ranked second in the world by the FIVB, joins NORCECA rival and No. 5 Cuba to headline Pool C being held Oct. 29 to Nov. 3 at Matsumoto, Japan. Other teams participating in Pool C are No. Germany, No. 13 Kazakhstan, No. 17 Thailand and No. 39 Croatia. The order of matches for the Americans will be Thailand on Oct. 29, Croatia on Oct. 30, Germany on Oct. 31, Kazakhstan on Nov. 2 and Cuba on Nov. 3.
"Pool C is a strong group to contend against - as are all of the teams who have earned the right to compete in the World Championship.

" U.S. Women's National Team Head Coach Hugh McCutcheon (Christchurch, New Zealand) said. "We're excited to compete in this event and build on the foundation we established in 2009. While we hope to do well in this tournament, our initial focus and goal is to get out of our pool and qualify for the next round of competition."

To read the entire press release - CLICK HERE

10th Annual Holiday Beach Event

Fort Lauderdale Beach, December 5th - 6th.

The Florida Beach Volleyball Tournament group is back for a 10th annual holiday beach tournament. Beach Volleyball in December: While everyone else is dealing with freezing rain and snow, we will be on the beach enjoying clear skies and temps in the 80's. Call all your out of town friends and relatives and tell them to celebrate winter on the beach with us in December! We will have great prizes for all divisions. We might even need a long sleeve t shirt to brave the elements if it dips below 80.

The first 25 teams that pre-register will receive a pair of Gotcha flip flops. Be sure and register early to collect your free gift.

Divisions:
Saturday: Mens and Womens Open, AAA, AA, A, BB, B
Sunday: Juniors and Co-ed AA, A, B
Pre-Registration closes 12 p.m. Friday
Check-in time is 7:30 am - 8:00 am. Saturday and Sunday

Pre-Registration fees: $60 per team for all divisions except open.
Open Divisions: $100 per team


Pre-register at: by Clicking Here

4A - State Champions: Jensen Beach

LAKELAND — Jensen Beach didn’t have to wait long to win its second state volleyball championship.

Two years after the Falcons won the program’s first title, they did it again, beating Fort Myers 26-24, 25-21, 25-11 to win the Class 4A championship Saturday at the Lakeland Center in just their second Final Four appearance.

Jensen Beach also set a school-record number of wins with a 27-5 finish.

“I don’t care what it looks like from outside the court, but it is very hard to win a state championship,” Falcons coach Mike Sawtelle said. “The teams you play on a nightly basis can beat you on any given day. We played so well (Friday) and so well today. ... We have 14 girls on our roster, and everyone is a part of this because in practice, we play hard against each other and it all paid off in the end.”

Senior middle hitter Brittany Tiegs ended the match on an ace and the Falcons paused a moment in amazement before rushing to the center of the court, hugging and high-fiving each other, while their fans clapped and cheered.

The title makes two for the Martin County School District this year after the Martin County Tigers won the Class 5A championship on Thursday.

“It’s indescribable,” said Tiegs, one of six players who also were a part of the 2007 championship.






Although Jensen Beach made the match look easy by sweeping Fort Myers (28-5) in three games, the first game was a battle to the end.

After a long rally at match point for Jensen Beach, Tiegs finally spiked the ball down on the Green Wave side of the court and the Falcons started celebrating until the Fort Myers crowd erupted in cheers. The officials ruled the hit a carry, which instead tied the game at 24.

Sawtelle called timeout so the Falcons could re-group, and sophomore right-side hitter Allie Bradley and senior middle hitter Molly Alexander scored the next two points on kills to end the game.





“We thought the game was over, and we had to do it again,” Sawtelle said. “We’ve said in the past, ‘Win the game twice if you have to.’ That’s what we did.”

Special Thanks to TCPalm.com for this posting.

With this posting we now close the chapetr in the 2009 High school season (Girls and Coaches: Give yourselves a hand) and now we open the chapter towards the 2009-2010 club season. Hope to see ya in a Tri-County Tournament.

CHAMPIONS: Martin County Wins 5A - State Title

Elise Walch knew as soon as her feet left the floor, she was going to end the match and walk away a champion.

The 6-foot-5 Martin County senior middle hitter recorded her 32nd kill of the night to give the Tigers volleyball team a 25-16, 17-25, 25-21, 25-21 win over Leon for the Class 5A state title Thursday at the Lakeland Center.

"I could feel it," said Walch, who accounted for the Tigers' final four points on kills and had 12 in the last set. "I wanted it so bad. ... I am just so happy. It's such a great way to go out."



The second the ball dropped to the Lions' side of the court, the Tigers (31-1) rushed to the middle of the floor, and the rows of fans dressed in blue erupted in cheers.

Martin County entered the match ranked 10th nationally by PrepVolleyball.com and backed it up with the program's second state title. The Tigers, who also won a championship in 1994, denied Leon (24-6) its first title after making the Final Four each of the last four seasons.

They will officially celebrate Friday by taking a trip to Busch Gardens.

"This caps a Cinderella season," Tigers coach Marty Bielicki said, noting the championship run was set in motion with a comeback regional final win over St. Thomas Aquinas. "I'm so proud of these girls."

Senior libero Lexi Lloyd added, "It's so unreal. It hasn't really set in that we are state volleyball champs. It's so amazing all our hard work paid off in the end."



Scrappy defense carried Martin County early in the match, as Leon forced the Tigers to get down on the floor with good ball movement around the blocks. Lloyd led the way with 23 digs for the match but had help from some big saves by Lauren Brinskelle and Mallori Moffat, particularly in the first set. The Tigers' only deficit was on the first three points of the set.

Martin County struggled in the second set, though, recording 10 hitting errors to Leon's two, and the Lions rolled to an eight-point win.

"We came out really pumped, and I think that's why we lost the second game," Bielicki said. "We had such an adrenaline rush wanting to prove ourselves to Leon. .. (Leon) played an excellent game. We knew we were going to be in a fight, and it was. We could have slumped very easily, but our girls were determined."



By the third game, Elise Walch, and her sister, sophomore middle hitter Nicole Walch, started heating up, combining for 15 kills in the set. Nicole finished with 15 kills and five blocks.

With Martin County leading 20-15 in the fourth set, the Lions rallied back to within one point at 21-20 before Elise Walch, who also had 3 aces and 2 blocks during her stellar night, closed the door on them.

"With those two great players out there, it's just really hard to defend," Leon coach Joy Becker said. "We were running around like chickens with our heads cut off trying to run the ball down. I don't think my team could have hustled any more. ... We left it all out on the court, but I think Martin County played one of the best matches they have played all year to beat us."

MARTIN COUNTY (31-1) - CLASS 5A STATE CHAMPION



No. Player Cl. Pos.

2 Lauren Brinskelle Sr. OH

3 Mallori Moffat So. S/OH

4 Lexis Lloyd Sr. LIB

5 Kelly Brown Sr. DS

7 Madison Arnold Jr. MH

8 Saige Popson Jr. S

9 Monica Meyer Sr. MH

10 Molly O’Neil Jr. OH

11 Kayla Cormier Sr. S

13 Sara Loomis Jr. OH

16 Tierney Seman Jr. OH

17 Morgan Lydon Jr. DS

22 Elise Walch Sr. MH

28 Nicole Walch So. MH

99 Madison Lydon Fr. OH

Coach: Marty Bielicki (28th year, 636-191)

Assistant coaches: Jim Butski, Laura Schoppe, Whitney Warren

Managers: Jenny Maine, Courtney Gates

Athletic director: Greg Hendricks

Principal: Joan Hunt

Special Thanks to TCPalm.com for this story.

Hot Off The Presses - Nov. 20th

Below is game action details as it comes in.

2A - Westminster Academy put up a valiant effort vs First Academy as it lost in four closely contested sets 25-21, 20-25, 27-25, 25-22.

6A - Just in. Plant was extremely dominant with their tall and talented line up as they beat Ferguson in three sets 25-13, 25-15 and 25-12. Martin of Plant who is on her way to play for Penn State recorded her 1000th career kill during the match.

6A - Boca Raton played close with their great defense but in the end were defeated by Winter Park in four sets: 25-16, 25-21, 23-25, 26-24.

Congratulations to Martin County for winning State in 5A - Full article coming soon!



FIU - Is currently playing in the Sun Belt Conference Tournament in Bowling Green, KY. FIU has advanced to the Semifinals round and will be playing the University of New Orleans @ 5:00PM today. For more information click on the FIU website on our side bar.

Preview: State Semifinals on Friday the 20th.

Today three teams took the long bus drive to Lakeland FL. Each team is faced with the excitement of competing for the state championship and the nervousness of knowing it can all end in three sets. The suddenness of the playoffs is what makes them so special.

One can only hope that they enjoy every-bit of this experience, because win or loose they are still South Florida's champions.

On Friday the 20th three more teams will face off with the best teams from the rest of Florida in the State Semifinals. All of our teams are facing extremely difficult opposition. But all of the teams are up to the task at hand.

6A - Boca Raton vs. Winter Park


The Boca Raton girls' volleyball team finds itself in uncharted territory when it faces Winter Park in the Class 6A state semifinals at The Lakeland Center Friday.

Making the school's first appearance in the state final four, Boca comes in red hot having won 16 of its 17 matches.

"We're a quick tempo type of team," said Coach Terri Kaiser, who has led the Defenders to the state tournament nine times in 23 seasons.







Winter Park is energised cy Camille "The Beast" Indest. Indest, who earned the nickname from teammates for her spirited celebrations where she briefly stares down opponents and cheers after a monster kill.

"We feed off of her energy," said Winter Park setter Katelin Henry. "She's a main part of our success."

Match Breakdown: Winter Park possesses and team with strong senior leadership. They are both tall and athletic. Boca will need to have a strong defensive effort to advance to the State Championship.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - -

6A - Ferguson vs. Plant



The Ferguson team knows they have their work cut out for them as they face the 9th ranked team in the nation. But if you ask the coach and every player they''ll let you know that they are there to win.

Although this is Ferguson's first year in the State Semifinals the Seniors should not be intimidated as they have competed and won in Orlando and Atlanta with their club team: The South Florida Flyers. It's up to those seniors and for Coach Shanower to make sure the team stays loose and yet focused.

``We have a tough test ahead of us, but I would love nothing more than to return with a trophy,'' Shanower said.

Plant coach Leanna Taylor said her team's experience in the state tournament will be an advantage. The Panthers have won the last three 5A state titles and are seeking their first 6A crown. "It's going to be like home court for them," Taylor said. Penn State-bound outside hitter Maddie Martin and Duke-bound libero Ali McCurdy will look to win their fourth consecutive state title as varsity players. Martin leads Plant with 347 kills while McCurdy leads the defense, and Hillsborough County, with 444 digs. Senior setter Becca Howard leads Hillsborough County with 840 assists. Plant, the nation's ninth-ranked team, hasn't lost a postseason game in three years.

Match Breakdown: Will Plant's confidence get the best of them or will they shine as they have in past years. One thing is for sure - Ferguson is there to win and if Plants not careful they might just be packing up to go home tomorrow afternoon.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - -

2A - Westminster Academy vs. First Academy:

Westminster Academy is no stranger to competing in important matches, nor being an underdog in a match. Just last week, few gave Westminster a chance to advance past Palmer Trinity.

Just as Coach Katie McCrath prepared her team to play it's game and to defeat Palmer, now she must prepare her team to raise the bar a bit higher to defeat last years 2A Champions. With Leaders such as Jenny Walsh and Leigh Andrew, coach will not have a problem preparing the team for a victorious run.

First Academy (25-4) the defending state champion back to the Final Four, where it will face Fort Lauderdale Westminister Academy, which knocked off Palmetto Bay-Palmetto Trinity Friday in the state semifinals at The Lakeland Center.

"Our goal all year has been to repeat," said an elated First Academy coach Michele Moreman. "I couldn't be more thrilled. We're just one step closer. To be able to get it done is huge. They believed in themselves."

The First Academy can thank the front-line play of hitters Kelly Merideth, Ansley Gebben and Taylor English for punching another ticket to the Final Four.

To all of our South Florida Teams: "Stay Loose and Play Hard"

Hot Off The Presses - Lakeland Action

1A - Wednesday Nov. 18th, the Lake Worth Christian Volleyball team gave an incredible effort losing to Warner Christian of Melbourne in three sets. Both teams came out strong with several lead changes but Warner Came out victorious 33-31. The Second set was dominated by Warner beating LWC 25-18 with the final set being yet another tight contest 26-24.

Warner Christian must be a very talented team to get the best of Lake Worth Christian. Congratulations to LWC to making it to the State Semifinals.
- - - - - - - - - - - -
3A - Wednesday Nov. 18th, the Chaminade Madonna Lions lost in three sets to Holy Trinity 25-14,25-20, 25-18.

``This meant a whole lot because it was out first time [at state], and everyone was really excited,'' Sicam said.

Rey, a senior, said: ``This was -- for a lot of the seniors -- the last chance of playing volleyball. Some of us aren't going to play in college. So it's a really hard loss, but we have to appreciate the fact that we got here, and we had a great season.''

We congratulate Chaminade for a great year and hope to see them back in states soon.

Preview State Semifinals on Wednesday the 18th.

On Wednesday the 18th, Chaminade-Madonna & Lake Worth Christian will be two of the six (6) South Florida Teams that will be battling in the State Semifinals in Lakeland Florida. The other four commence play on Friday the 20th.

Class 3A - The Lions of Chaminade (24-6) who defeated NBP and will play in Lakeland vs. Holy Trinity of Melbourne in a Class 3A state semifinal at 4 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 18 at The Lakeland Center.

Holy Trinity (23-5)reached the Class 2A region semifinal last season, losing to Class 2A state champs (Orlando) First Academy.

Match Breakdown: Both teams have a strong Sr. foundation. Chaminade's young stars must stay cool under the presure to move forward against a talented team.

BEST of Luck to Chaminade-Madonna – Stay Loose and Play Hard

Class 1A - Lake Worth Christian:


Class 1A – Lake Worth Christian (25-5) will be going up against a very talented Warner Christian Team (26-3) for the right to compete the next day for the State Championship.
This year, the varsity volleyball team stormed out of the gate to a 16-0 start. The team finished a strong regular season at 20-5 and won a fourth straight district championship.

Throughout the year, many great things have taken place. The team won the Palm Beach County Tournament. They also took a road trip to play 1A contenders Bayshore Christian and Bradenton Christian in their respective gyms and beat both teams.


Senior Danielle Lampman committed to Bryan College prior to the season and also was named a News 12 Athlete of the Week late in the season. Senior Katelyn Mears was named to the all tournament team at the Northside Christian Tournament.

Match Breakdown: Both teams are very similar in size, athleticism and excellent coaching. This should be a very close contest and the victorious team will be the one who wants it more. Look at a Video on the top side bar of Warners Setter to get a bit more insight on the Warner Team

History: Warner Christian d. Lake Worth Christian in five (5) sets at the Northside Invitational Tournament.

BEST of Luck to Lake Worth Christian – Stay Loose and Play Hard

Lakeland Bound !

This Saturday the 14th, several players dreams of making it to States in Lakeland were realized as they advanced as Regional Champions.

6A - Regional Championship - Ferguson High School won the Regional Championship Saturday, defeating Krop 22-25, 26-24, 25-17, 25-17.



Krop came out strong and confident in the first game and controlled the game with consistent serves and good defense. But Ferguson came back to win the second game 26-24 after a key save by Anabel Miguelez, with Danielle Pohl pounding 3 aces to seal the win. Valeria Mejia scored with 5 consecutive serves and contributed the winning block. The Falcons were able to carry that momentum into the third and fourth games to win the title.

Kristen Walewski led the match with 50 assists and 11 digs, and Alexandra Walewski had 10 kills and 10 digs. Danielle Pohl dominated the net with 19 kills and 3 blocks, while Alexandra Beverly slammed 14 kills. Mackenzie Webster played consistently all around, and Alexandra Brando had 16 digs. Danielle Pohl attributed the win to "great team unity that pulled the game out in the end." Alexandra Beverly added, "Krop played an amazing game, but it was our year." Coach Greg Shanower said that while he was proud of his team's effort and tenacity, they would have to improve on ball control in order to win at the next level. This is Ferguson's first trip to the Final Four. Guest Writers Joy and Jerry Beverly.

6A - Regional Championship - Boca Raton d. Hollywood Hills in three sets: 25-19, 25-9, 25-23

5A - Regional Championship - Martin County d. St. Thomas Aquinas in a five set thriller, 28-26, 15-25, 23-25, 25-23, 15-9.


4A - Regional Championship - Jensen Beach d. Cardinal Gibbons in four sets: 25-18, 17-25, 25-21, 27-25.

3A - Regional Championship - Chaminade d. North Broward Prep.: 28-26, 25-21, 26-24.

2A - Regional Championship - Westminster Academy d.Palmer Trinity in a five set thriller: 19-25, 17-25, 25-23, 28-26,15-13.

1A - Regional Championship - Lake Worth Christian d Miami Christian in three Sets: 25-14, 25-22, 25-14.

Congratulations to all of the teams that advanced as Regional Champions, Cherish this win but be focused and prepared for Lakeland FL.

Seven Key matches for the Right to go to Lakeland, FL.

This Saturday is a major day in the lives of many young ladies through-out South Florida as they have reached the Regional Championship match that will determine which teams deserves to go to Lakeland, FL. and compete for the state championship.

Something to Think about: “You gain strength, courage and confidence by every experience in which you stop to look fear in the face.” - - Elenor Roosevelt. This quote came from our Inspirational quote section. See which quote pushes your buttons and takes you to new heights.

All the summer workouts, practices, games, bumps and bruises have lead 12 South Florida teams to this point. Which team will have the ability to dig a bit deeper and will their teams to victory.

Below is a Match by Match breakdown of this Saturday games.

6A - Regional Championship - Dr. Krop vs. John A. Ferguson H.S.

Ferguson Coached by Greg Shanower
Top Players: Kristin Walewski, Sr.; Alexandra Walewski, Sr.; Mackenzie Webster, Sr.; Danielle Pohl, Sr.; Alexandra Beverly Sr.

KROP Coached by Caron Schiffman
Top Players: Jesyca Schiffman, Sr.; Brittany Dubins, Sr.; Dylan Yarchin, So.; Brittany Torano, So

Breakdown: Both teams are talented and well coached to make it to this point. Ferguson can come at you from so many angles. Interseting Tidbit: Both teams are lead by two of the best setters in Miami - Dade County: Kristin Walewski (Ferguson) and Jesyca Schiffman (Krop). Previous meeting: Ferguson defeated Krop, 25-21, 25-14 for the GMAC.

6A - Regional Championship - Hollywood Hills vs Boca Raton.




Hollywood Hills
Coached by Jenna Andrews
Top Players: Sr. Ashley James, OH; Sr. Taylor Miller [PICTURED], MH; Fr. Beth Shoaff, S; Sr. Amanda Wright, OH.








Boca Raton
Coached by Amanda Angermeier
Top Players:Julia Schade (Sr.); Lindsey Knapp (So.); Shannon Gregerek (So.); Maria Christakis (Jr.);Mariah Tiona (Sr.); Natalie Fraley (Jr.)

Breakdown: Both teams are very athletic. It will be interesting to see how Holleywood Hills attempts to control Boca's Hard hitting attack. Don't be surprised if the match goes the distance to five (5) sets.

5A - Regional Championships - St. Thomas Aquinas vs. Martin County













St Thomas Aquinas
Coached by Lisa Zielinski
Top Players: Jr. Crystal Dedes, MH; Sr. Dee Dee Dennis; Sr. Anne Langsenkamp, LIB; Sr. Kelly Marble, OH; Jr. Lauren Spear, S.; Fr. Allison Belanger, OH.

Breakdown: A Clash of Power vs. Power. The talented hard hitting St. Thomas team must find a way to get around the Walch Sisters (Sr. Elise 6'5" and So. Nicole 6'2"). The coach and players that adjusts the quickest will be victorious. Interesting Tidbit: Martin County has an amazing 26-1 record. Previous match was won by Martin County in three sets.

4A - Regional Championships - Cardinal Gibbons vs. Jensen Beach

Cardinal Gibbons:
Coached by Kathryn Farland
Top Players: Sr. Courtney Buchanan, OH; So. Caiti Donahoe, S; So. Katie Hillman, MH; Sr. Molly Macek, LIB; Jr. Jessica Wynn, OH/RS.
Comment: Gibbons looks for a 19th State title under second year coach Kathlyn Farland.

Breakdown: Gibbons always has a big hitting team, going to states probably more than most teams out of the south. Jensen has great defense and usually runs a pretty fast game. both teams have mostly high caliber players, as most play club. Interesting Tidbit: Cardinal Gibbons will be going for their 19th state title.

3A - Regional Championship - North Broward Prep vs. Chaminade

Chaminade
Coached by Jason Johnson
Top Players: So. Brianna O'Neil, MH; Sr. Chantal Franzosa, OH; Sr. Ashley Rey, OH; So. April Sicam, LIB.

North Broward Prep
Coached by Terri Jimenez
Top Players: So. Kristi Chynoweth, MH; Sr. Katelyn Hummel, S; 8th McCallen Kennedy, MH; Sr. Krista Lighter, LIB; So. Victoria McPherson, MH/OH; Devin Rawiszer, OH.

Breakdown: Chaminades ability to control the net and be ready for tips could go a long way towards victory against a talented and tall North Broward team. Previous match was won by North Broward Prep 2-1.

2A - Regional Championship - Palmer Trinity vs. Westminster Academy




Palmer Trinity
Coached by William Gonzalez
Top Players: Paulina Prieto [PICTURED], So.; Kristen Titley, Sr.; Sarah Alfonso, Sr.; Cecilia Leal, Sr.; Savannah Dominguez Jr.; Carson Zachar Jr.; Danielle Littke 8th






Westminster Academy
Coached by Katie McCrath
Top Players: So. Leigh Andrew, OH; So. Amelia Bohlander, OH; Jr. Mckenzie Keightley, MH; Jr. Emily McMurtrey, S; Sr. Jenny Walsh, LIB.

Breakdown: Yet another Westminster team stands in the way of Palmers quest to be the best in the state. Two of the best players in their counties (Paulina Prieto / Miami-Dade & Leigh Andrew / Broward) go head to head for the third time this year. Palmer had two back-to-back meetings with Westminster Academy last month, both won by Palmer Trinity, at home and at Westminster Academy.


1A - Regional Championship - Lake Worth Christian vs. Miami Christian



Lake Worth Christian
Coached by Terri Kaiser
Top Players: Danielle Lampman (Sr.); Kristen Kintz (So.); Katelyn Mears (Sr.); Brytney Annis (Jr.)[PICTURED]; Kristy Golden (Jr.); Amanda Krach (Jr.); Gabby Fisher (Jr.); Samantha Cantwell (Jr.)





Miami Christian
Coached by Mary Odio
Top Players: Andrea Garcia, Jr.; Nicole Neckelheimer, Jr.; Daniela Garcia, Jr.; Alexandra Rios, Jr.

Breakdown: Two very talented teams with great height in the power positions will face each other very well. We'll see if lake Worth Christians tough schedule will pay dividends. Interesting Tidbit: First time in a long time that Redlands Christian is not in the Regional Championship match.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Once again we wish all of you that are competing this Saturday the very best. Make sure to cherish every moment both good and bad.

Folks these matches are being held on a Saturday and all of us should make an effort to attend one of these matches.

Parents: If you have a good picture or two to share of Playoff Action. Please send it to volleyballreport@gmail.com

Special Thanks to our Broward and Palm Beach insiders. This posting would be impossible without their help.

Apologies to Martin County and Jensen Beach - we cover the tri-county area (Dade, Broward and Palm Beach) but would love to have a Martin County insider that helps out with info and stories from time to time - Any Volunteers?