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.

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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.

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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.
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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.
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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?

Palmer Trinity Powers over Westminster in three sets

This time of year is full of the excitement of the playoffs as Class 2A Titans: Palmer Trinity and Westminster clashed for the forth time this year in the Regional Semifinals. Unlike all of their previous matches the victor was decided in just three sets as Palmer Trinity controlled the net.

Palmer Trinity advanced with a three set victory 25-21, 25-9, 25-20 and will now face Westminster Academy of Broward County in the regional Finals.

At the beginning of the match the gym was a buzz with anticipation as both teams respect one-anothers ability and all knew that either way, a very talented teams season would be coming to an abrupt end. The first set was as many have been in this classic match-up; hard fought with many great plays from both sides. In the end Palmer Trinity broke a tie late in the set to capture set one 25-21.



Set two began with Palmer ridding the momentum of the first set to a quick 8-1 run. They never looked back as Paulina Prieto, Savannah Dominguez and Kristen Titley controlled the net and the set with a 25-9 victory.

As set number three started, most in the gym wondered how Westminster would respond.
Would they come out flat or would they dig deep within themselves and play like warriors. Of course they came out like warriors and took a commanding 9-2 lead. Just as it seemed that we were headed towards yet another 5 set thriller, Palmer Trinity started to assert itself and to control the net with it's power game. The 9-2 lead that Westminster earlier enjoyed became a 13-9 deficit as Palmer Trinity went on an 11 point run. The set was closely contested with the last tie being at 18 a piece when Palmer went on it's final run to close the set and the 2009 version of the "Clash of the Titans" as Palmer won set no. 3 (25-20).



As many folks in the gym congratulated the deserving Palmer Trinity players and coaches, I'd like to take the time to acknowledge the Westminster team and tip my hat off to them and the great season that they had in 2009.

Miami Dade Community College wins State Championship

The Sharks won the FCCAA state championship with the victory. They were led by Yenifer Calcano's double-double (13 kills, 12 digs, 1 ace, 1 block). Calcano was named the tournament's Most Valuable Player.



The Miami Dade College volleyball team is currently ranked #1 in the State, and # 7 in the Nation. The 25-4 Sharks are the 2009 Southern Conference Champions. For the 4th straight season, they finished undefeated in the conference at 12-0.

The Lady Sharks are lead by OH/M Sandra Montoya, was is currently ranked in the Nation at #8 digs per set, #47 hitting efficiency, and ranked in the State at #2 digs per set, #11 hitting efficiency, #37 kills per set, #48 blocks per set. OH/M Yenifer Calcano is currently ranked in the Nation at #11 kills per set, #24 aces per set, #29 hitting efficiency, and in the State at #1 kills per set, # 5 aces per set, # 6 hitting efficiency, #17 digs per set, #18 blocks per set.

Also, freshman setter Mima Hajdukovic is ranked in the Nation at #23 hitting efficiency, #40 assists per set, and in the State at #6 assists per set, #8 assists per set, #26 aces per set, #43 kills per set. The Lady Sharks have qualified for the FCCAA Region/State Championship competition on Nov. 5-7.

FIU Prevails through a tough Weekend defeating WKU and MTSU

This weekend's matches had upset written all over them as FIU was ridding a high of consecutive victories and Conference powerhouses (Western Kentucky and Middle Tennessee) were lying in wait to ambush FIU and crush this special season.







Coach Tomic obviously had the team focused with the task at hand because FIU came out victorious on both matches.








BOWLING GREEN, Ky. - The FIU volleyball team defeated Sun Belt Conference rival Western Kentucky, 3-1, on Friday night at E.A. Diddle Arena in Bowling Green, Ky., as the Panthers won their 18th straight victory to improve to 25-2 (15-0 SBC) on the season. The 15 conference wins equal the most in the program's history, a mark set by last year's squad.

Rosa recorded a double-double with 20 kills and 14 digs, both team-best marks, while Bjelica tallied 19 kills against just two errors for an attack percentage of .486. Sophomore Andrea Lakovic had a stellar outing on both sides of the net, notching seven kills against a single error for a hitting percentage of .429 and recorded three solo blocks and three block assists. Bjelica added a team-high four blocks.
Valentin recorded 35 assists and FIU's lone service aces of the evening while Araujo added 10 digs.

MURFREESBORO, Tenn. - The FIU volleyball team clinched the Sun Belt Conference regular season title on Saturday night at Alumni Memorial Gym with a 3-1 (26-24, 25-22, 22-25, 26-24) victory over Middle Tennessee. The Panthers are winners of 19 straight matches and improve to 26-2 (16-0 SBC) on the season with the win. The 16 conference wins is also a new school record, breaking the previous record of 15 set in 2008.

Three Panthers reached double digits in kills on the night, as Rosa recorded 21 kills and Vergun and Bjelica added 18 and 14 kills, respectively. Valentin tallied 52assists while Vergun led the FIU defense with six blocks. Sophomore Andrea Lakovic had another outstanding night as she tallied four kills compared to zero errors for a hitting percentage of .500. She also added a pair of block assists.

Be sure to make it to the U.S. Century Arena this Wednesday @ 6:30PM for FIU's second to last home match of the season vs. up and coming Florida Gulf Coast University.

FIU's Volleyball team is in the midst of a Special Season

We are truly blessed as a community to have a team competing at such a high level in DIV I. The FIU Golden Panthers are on a tear with a 24-2 record. They have received the highest votes from the AVCA coaches poll "Top 25" ever. If you are a fan of great volleyball and you wish to witness first hand a great team in action; I highly recommend you make it to as many games as possible because the season is almost over and the team leaders: Yarimar Rosa #3, Olga Vergun #7 and Isadora Rangel #14 are seniors.



FIU is located right of the Florida Turnpike, there is no reason that folks from Broward County and North Miami Beach can not make it to these matches. The environment is great with 1,000 plus fans always in attendance at the U.S. Century Bank Arena that can hold much more.

There are only two home matches remaining:
Wednesday Nov. 11th vs. Florida Gulf Coast @ 6:30PM
Saturday Nov 28th vs. Florida A&M @ 1:00PM



This weekend will prove to be the toughest test yet as FIU travels to Sun Belt Conference nemesis Western Kentucky and Middle Tennessee. Traditionally these two team have been the top teams in the conference since coach Danijela Tomic arrived @ FIU. Last years FIU team captured the conference title as all three teams (W.K. & MTSU) went to the NCAA Tournament.

I'm sure that both Western Kentucky and Middle Tennessee are not very happy that there is a new Queen of the Mountain and will do everything possible to knock them off this weekend.

Scouting Western Kentucky: The Hilltoppers are 21-7 on the season and 10-3 in SBC play heading into the weekend and are riding a five-match win streak. Offensively, WKU is led by Jordyn Skinner (250 kills, 2.4 kps) and Lauren Stuckel (987 assists, 9.49 aps), while Brittany Bowen (90 blocks, 0.89 bps) and Sarah Rogers (392 digs, 3.77 dps) spearhead the Hilltopper defense. Lindsey Gould leads the squad in service aces with 43. The last time WKU and FIU met (Sept. 2), the Panthers came away with a 3-1 win at the U.S. Century Bank Arena behind a season-high 24 kills from senior Yarimar Rosa. Coutesy of FIU.com

Scouting Middle Tennessee: The Blue Raiders are 19-7 overall and 12-1 in SBC action, as MTSU brings a 10-match win streak into weekend action. The MTSU offense is led by Izabela Kozon (317 kills, 3.56 kps) and Leslie Clark (969 assists, 10.89 aps), while Janay Yancey (88 blocks, 1.06 bps) and Ashley Waugh (248 digs, 3.22 dps) lead the Blue Raider defense. Kozon leads the team in service aces with 30. The Blue Raiders' lone conference loss came at the hands of FIU on Oct. 4 by a 3-1 score at the U.S. Century Bank Arena. Rosa and Vergun led the Panthers with 19 and 15kills, respectively. Courtesy of FIU.com

Regardless of this weekends outcome The FIU team should go far if they stay hungry. Knowing coach Tomic she'll have this team ready to face adversity and to prevail.

University Round-Ups:

This weekend is shaping up to be a good weekend to visit your favorite team cheer your team to victory:

The University of Miami are fighting to establish themselves this year and will host Wake Forest tonight the 6th @ 7:00PM. They will then host ACC power house Duke University @ 1:00PM. If you wish to see the Duke match arrive early.

Nova Southeastern will host Fla. Tech this evening @ 7:00PM and Rollins College Saturday @ 4:00PM.

Barry University will host the same Div II teams in inverse order. Rollins this evening @ 7:00PM then Fla. Tech on Saturday @ 2:00PM.

We hope everyone has a great weekend cheering your favorite teams as the University season winds down.

Yesterday, Nov 4th were the final Quaterfinal matches in South Florida. Several good teams were eliminated from contention this week. We salute the effort that every player, parent and coach has put forth. We hope that every team that moves towards the State Finals in Lakeland represents South Florida to the fullest.

There was one upset to report in Lourdes defeat of Palmetto (last years 6A Lakeland Representative).

Lourdes was led by the servicing of Senior Lauren Silva (7aces and 6 kills) as they d. Palmeto 26-24, 26-24, 25-19 in region 4-6A Quarterfinal. Senior OH Carolina Nuche finished with a match high 13 kills, Junior Setter Ketherine Zamora had 31 assists and freshman libero Victoria Verdeja had 23 digs.

Region 4-6A quarterfinal -- Ferguson d. Killian, 25-19, 25-17, 25-17: Alexandra Beverly slammed five of her team-high 14 kills in the third game.

``We played a good game overall and our setter really ran our offense well,'' Ferguson coach Greg Shanower said. ``We turned on the switch when we needed to, which is good, but it's that time of year where every point, every set, every play counts.''

Ferguson (20-5) rallied to win the opening game, as Beverly collected four of her 14 kills. Alexandra Walewski added 20 digs and seven kills.

The Falcons will prepare for Lourdes next.

``Playing Lourdes again is tough because they played us so well in the district finals,'' Shanower said. ``They know our weaknesses and though the score didn't reflect it, they played a much better game than we did.''

-- MELISSA MARTI, Miami Herald


• Region 4-6A quarterfinal -- Krop d. Coral Park 22-25, 25-18, 25-17, 25-17: The Lightning (23-2) came together once again, rallying around the injured Brittany Dubins.

Although Dubins was hampered by a leg injury she sustained during the district championship tournament, she sparked Krop with 13 kills. The Lightning will host Hialeah at 3 p.m. next Tuesday in the regional semifinals.

Krop coach Caron Schiffman said that before the game, Dubins told her that she wanted to play despite the injury.

``Brittany told me, 'I'm here if you need me [coach]','' Schiffman said. ``I really didn't want to play her at all, but I could sense that the girls needed to get pumped up out there so I threw her in and whenever she got a kill or made big play, it got us going.''

-- J.T. WILCOX, Miami Herald

• Region 4-2A quarterfinal -- Palmer Trinity d. Florida Christian 25-13, 25-18, 25-17: Palmer dominated from the outset and were able to attack incessantly courtesy of sophomore Paulina Prieto who led the charge with nine kills, four aces, and nine blocks. Prieto was also fundamental in the frontline defense as they were able to neutralize the Patriots Meghan Doyle.

Palmer's offense was not only being run through Prieto but also senior Sarah Alfonso (40 assists, three blocks) as well as Kristen Titley (four aces, five kills). Savannah Dominguez (four kills, three blocks) and Lauren Boss (five kills, two aces) were vital contributors to the Falcon cause.

-- JUAN ARANGO, Miami Herald

• Region 4-4A quarterfinal -- Mater Academy d. Archbishop McCarthy 22-25, 23-25, 25-16 25-23, 15-2: The host Lions overcame a two game deficit and dominated the fifth set, scoring 13 points in a row behind a flawless service run from Natasha Naveda and beating McCarthy on a kill from senior Jenna Isaacs.

``The first two sets, my heart was breaking,'' Isaacs said. ``But our whole team, we brought it back together, and that's the best feeling in the world. -- I'm going to cry right now.''

Isaacs finished with 24 kills and one block, and senior Maria Madrid had 17 kills and two blocks.

-- EVAN DREXLER, Miami Herald

• Region 4-2A quarterfinal -- Westminster Academy d. Fort Pierce John Carroll 27-25, 25-14, 27-25: Amelia Bohlander had 13 kills (three blocks, two tips) and six service points (two aces) to lead a solid effort for Westminster Academy in Fort Lauderdale.

The Lions (20-6) will host Calvary Christian in a rematch of the district finals -- won by Westminster -- in the region semifinal on Nov. 10.

Westminster avenged an earlier loss to John Carroll (21-8) at the Martin County tournament. The Lions served, passed and hit well Wednesday. The defense was strong, and they won the close games.

Leigh Andrew had 14 kills (tip), nine digs, nine service points (ace), and Brenna Pelletier had nine service points (three aces), eight digs and a kill. Jenny Walsh recorded 12 digs to anchor a solid defense along with Andrew and Pelletier.

-- JIM VARSALLONE, Miami Herald

• Region 3-6A semifinal -- West Broward d. Plantation 25-20, 21-25, 25-13, 25-11: West Broward defeated Plantation to advance to the regional finals for the first time in school history.

West Broward got it done using a variety of different players to tally kills, assists and digs.

``We are blessed with versatility,'' Bobcats coach Jill Smitherman said. ``We distribute the ball well and get the job done.''

Leading the way for the Bobcats was Taylor Bonito, who totaled 33 assists, 15 digs, two blocks and four kills. She also hit four consecutive aces to start the first set.

-- ALEX WEINTRAUB, Miami Herald

• Region 4-4A quarterfinal: Cardinal Gibbons d. Norland 25-4, 25-9, 25-9: Katie Hilman had two blocks, five kills, 16 service points. Kaiti Donahoe had four kills, 28 assists, six aces. Suzi Solenski had 10 kills, six service points. CG 21-2.

• Region 4-2A quarterfinal -- Calvary Christian d. Benjamin 25-23. 25-22, 25-22: Christine Lakatos had 16 kills, five blocks, three service points. Debra Gordon had 14 kills, four service points, four aces. Jessie Wilkie had 30 assists, 10 service points. CC 17-9.

• Region 3-6A quarterfinal -- Douglas d. Jupiter 25-22, 23-25, 25-14, 25-23: Kendall Putnam had 13 service points, four aces, 19 kills. Kirsten Kuhl had five digs, 11 kills, four blocks. Lauren Strode had three service points, 12 digs. DOU 17-6.

• Region 4-2A quarterfinal -- Westminster Christian d. Miami Country Day 25-18, 25-17, 25-18: Julie Trembley had 15 kills, five digs. Deanna Etzold had 11 kills, nine assists, five digs. Rebbecca Acevedo had 34 assists, nine kills, four aces. WC 23-5.

• Region 4-6A quarterfinal -- Hialeah d. Goleman 25-17, 25-19, 23-25, 25-9: Jasmine Wilkin led Hialeah with 13 kills and five blocks. Miriah Reynold had six kills and five blocks. Jennifer Maron had 23 assists.

Photos: Parents and Coaches send in the photos of South Florida's Playoff Action!

South Florida teams continue their qwest towards Lakeland: Regional Quarter Finals

South Florida's elite teams continue their quest towards the State Championship in the Quarterfinal Rounds of the Regionals. All the teams advanced as expected with the slight exception of Redlands Christian in 1A that was the runner-up of District 16 and d. the winner of District 15 - Greater Miami Christian. This is not a major upset seeing that Redlands has been a constant participant in Lakeland and is still lead by the Carr sisters.

The balance of Regional Quarterfinals take place today through-out South Florida.

Regional Quarterfinal Action - Results and Top Performers for Tuesday Nov 2nd:

>Region 4-1A quarterfinal -- Miami Christian d. Calusa Prep 25-15, 24-26, 25-13, 25-19: Andrea Garcia led Miami Christian (20-3) with 16 kills and eight aces. Nicole Beckleheimer finished with 13 kills and eight aces. Alexandra Marchese contributed 25assists.

> Region 4-1A quarterfinal -- Redland Christian Academy d. Greater Miami Academy 25-12, 25-15, 25-19: Kaylyn Carr had 25 kills, four blocks, four aces and five assists to lead the Falcons (16-3) to victory. Karlee Carr added four kills, one block, seven aces and 31 assists, and Deedee Nelson contributed 10 kills, one block, two aces and one assist.







> Region 4-5A quarterfinal -- St. Thomas Aquinas d. Palm Beach Wellington 25-8, 25-9,25-11: Kelly Marble had 11 kills, two digs, five service points for the Raiders. Allison Bellanger (Pictured Hitting #1) had 10 kills, nine digs and two blocks. Crystal Dedes added six kills and seven blocks. The Raiders travel to face Spanish River, whom the Raiders defeated in their lone regular season matchup.


> Region 4-5A quarterfinal -- Boca Raton Spanish River d. Nova 25-20, 25-11, 25-17: Olivia Mesner (Pictured), a junior transfer from North Broward Prep, led the host Sharks (20-7). She had eight kills in a close game one. Spanish River pulled away in game two as she added four more kills (block, tip). Nova's sound defense had trouble handling the serve of libero Maddy Davell in game one and Alex Burgess in game two. Sara Saxner and Cassie Thompson each had three kills for the Titans (17-6) in the opener, but Spanish River kept Nova off ballance, finding spots.

> Region 4-3A quarterfinal -- North Broward Prep d. Cardinal Newman 25-22, 25-9, 25-11: Victoria McPherson had 16 kills and two blocks, and Kristi Chynoweth added 11 kills and two blocks to lead the Eagles (16-11). Krista Lighter had 11 digs, seven service points and two aces. Katelyn Hummell had 35 assists.

> Region 4-3A quarterfinal -- Chaminade d. Miami Gulliver Prep 25-15, 25-22, 25-17: Brianna O'Neil had 10 kills, eight service points and two blocks to lead the Lions (22-6). Ashley Rey had eight service points, seven kills and six digs. Chantal Franzosa had eight service points, two aces and five kills.

> Region 4-1A quarterfinal -- Highlands Christian d. Boca Raton Christian 25-10, 25-16, 25-23: Katelyn Wik had 12 service points, four aces, six digs and eight kills for the Knights (18-7). Lindsey Nick had 12 service points, three aces, three digs and nine kills. Joanna Marco had eight service points, six digs, 12 assists and three blocks. Kelly Ray had five kills and five blocks.

> Region 4-1A quarterfinal -- Lake Worth Christian d. Sheridan Hills 25-11, 25-6, 25-5: Caitlin McCluskey had four kills and two blocks to lead the Sharks (21-3) in the loss.

Be sure to read your local papers for complete Volleyball Playoff coverage.