Richmond Christian Eagles and Burnett Breakers culminated a terrific season-long rivalry by squaring off one more time in the Vancouver and District Juvenile Boys Volleyball championship match.
How this final would unfold was anyone’s guess.
The Breakers had won the last two meetings — including a thrilling five-set victory for the Richmond Championship that saw them battle back from an 0-2 deficit.
Burnett also won a close regular season battle (3-2) and prevailed in straight sets (3-0) at the Strikers Invitational. The Eagles did taste victory in the final of the Air Attack High School Invitational Tournament.
The best-of-five championship match lived up to the hype and then some. The host Breakers won the first set and Richmond Christian answered by winning the next two. With its back against the wall, Burnett responded with a dominating game four win, setting the stage for a deciding set.
The Breakers jumped out to an early advantage and led 8-5 before the Eagles mounted a comeback and eventually pulled even at 11-11. They ultimately prevailed 17-15.
Richmond Christian had earlier defeated Burnaby North in the V&D semi-finals in straight sets, again avenging an earlier season loss at the Burnaby champions own tourney. Its road to the Richmond final included victories against Richmond High and McMath.
“Great camaraderie and teamwork within the team,” said proud winning coach Sigfried Ong who had a roster mixed with experienced player and newcomers. “We have had lots of growth in physical skill, and character but mostly with mental endurance and staying focused despite the nervousness especially against a great team like Burnett.”
The Eagles were led by 15U club provincial all-star Jacob Louie as a left-side hitter, while Julian Huang, Edward Chien and Jeuel Villalluz provided solid setting.
The Breakers’ outstanding season was highlighted by the play of setter Brandon Bee and powerhouse left-side hitter Jackson Huang. The Breakers were guided by veteran coach Bill Riach.
Assisting Ong on the Eagles’ championship run were Alan Yang and Hansen Tu who helped Richmond Christian senior boys team win bronze at last fall’s B.C. “A” Championships.
