The McMath Wildcats pulled out a thrilling fifth set victory to capture the Richmond Junior Girls Volleyball Championship.
For the past two seasons, the Wildcats went unbeaten through regular season play and the city playoffs before being upset in the finals. It was a similar script this season as the girls enjoyed another perfect run in league play and reached the championship match to see the Steveston-London Sharks for the second straight year. This time, they were determined it would be a different ending.
It turned out to be a thrilling see-saw battle with the teams exchanging sets and leaving it until the fifth to determine the winner.
Steveston-London jumped out to an 8-3 lead and looked to be in control. However, the Wildcats were focused and spirited, showing grit, skill and determination to rally back for a dramatic 15-13 victory.
The closely-knit team of eight includes Georgina Magnus, Chelsea Simpkins, Sophia Koutsandreas, Fiona Uson, Natasia Rivera, Jessica Ryanne Bulteel, Stephanie Herrera, Sarah Street and Keeley Hol. The team was coached by Kori Hol and her Grade 11 assistants Nick Jaensson and Matt Young.
