By Gerardo Bolong
KENT - Kennedy Catholic showed fighting spirit to defeat Federal Way in four sets to remain alive in the 2018 4A West Central District III/Southwest IV bi-district volleyball tournament that concludes on Nov. 10.
On Sat., Nov. 3, at Kent Meridian High School, the Lancers from Burien broke out quickly, led by the hard hitting from Haley (Pearl) Moore.
Leading from the outset of the first set, Kennedy Catholic stormed to 25-17 win against Federal Way.
The Lancers controlled the tempo in similar fashion with nice digs and blocks to secure another 25-17 win in the second set.
The Eagles were on fire as they blocked and tipped their way to an 18-7 lead in the third set.
KC surged within 18-13 before getting even closer at 20-18 behind good play from Shari O’Neil and Avery Watkins.
Federal Way finished off a 25-21 triumph with outside hitter Joyce Muliaganotoa leading the clinching points.
A rejuvenated Lancer squad poured on the offense and defense to quickly destroy the Eagles in a 25-16 fourth set to reach the next round of play.
“They’re a group of fighters and don’t give up,” said head coach Liz Quitiquit. “We moved one of of our strikers around on the front line to keep their blockers guessing.”
District players for Kennedy Catholic are Vanessa Mendez, Jessica Obrogewitsch, Shari O’Neil, Kyllie Matsushima, Amaya Cook, (Anuhea) Anu Lopez, Avery Watkins, Hanna Scandiffio, Haley (Pearl) Moore, Angelica DiPietro, Alexa Crosby, Dyamonde Schirmer, Bailey Steadman and Madison McPhee.
Assisting coach Quitiquit are Tom Amparo and Courtney Rantz.