September 11, 2023

Warriors Rally Back, Get First Win in Coach Cole Era

Video Box Score
By Francisco Claudio
 
The Westcliff women's volleyball team vowed they would get stronger and it was only a matter of time before their hard work and dedication were rewarded with a win.
 
On Saturday the Warriors were on the last leg of their three-game road trip as they suited up for a late night match against Pacific Union College.
 
The team fought hard and dug deep to come back after losing the first set to take it in four: 21-25, 25-17, 25-22, 25-23.
 
PUC entered the game unbeaten against Cal Pac opponents so Westcliff was going to have a tough battle at hand.
 
The Warriors started the first set well, winning the first three points and taking control early on.
 
But PUC swung the momentum later on after winning five points in a row to go up 17-15.
 
That became the turning point of the first set and the Warriors found themselves facing another big hurdle in front of them.
 
But this team is made up of fighters who represent the Warriors brand and will never stop fighting.
 
The second set was underway and the Warriors came out on fire with an early eight-point run to go up 12-7.
 
This proved to be too much for PUC as Westcliff took the second to even the score at a set apiece.
 
Riding this momentum shift the Warriors were determined to get their first win and played an outstanding third and fourth set to take down PUC.
 
"The idea of focusing on our progression continues with adjustments for each opponent," said head coach Andrew Cole after the match. "Rather than circling specific dates, we want to improve every day. Today, there were multiple strings of points.  
 
"Scoring points in volleyball may look different for each person. As each student-athlete learns her way to add value, those strings of points should happen more often. We have plenty of time to reflect on the weekend. Always a better trip back following a win."
 
This is an important win for the Warriors under coach Cole's leadership after a couple of tough losses this season. 
 
Serena Comer and Abbey Beckwith led the way in kills for Westcliff with 10 each.
 
Samantha Lister was everywhere and had an impressive line of 29 assists, 12 digs, and seven kills.
 
Ava Himstreet was great on the defensive end with 20 digs.
 
With the win, the Warriors are back in business in this early part of the season. They are 1-3 (1-2).
 
Up Next: Warriors will host Park-Gilbert on Thursday, September 14th in what will be a three-game homestand.