By Gerardo Bolong

KENT - Pounding frontline power prevailed on Sat., Nov. 3, at Kent Meridian High School when Kentwood ended the Mt. Rainier volleyball season in a three-set match at the 2018 West Central District III/Southwest Washington IV 4A bi-district tournament.

All in all, it was a very successful season according to Ram  coach Patrick Taitano.

"I can't be upset," he said. "We were flat to start. To come back after we were down meant so much. They never give up. We weren't expected to even be here. I'm really proud."

Kentwood's hitting power manifested itself early in first set and continued for a 25-13 victory.

Mt. Rainier fought to a 16-12 second set only to be overturned by a Kentwood seven point spree.

Staying close, MR whittled away to trail at 21-19. The Conks drew away to a 24-20 edge, but Anna Hardy, Malaysiah Banuelos and Haley Williams helped lift the Rams close again at 24-22, although Kentwood scored the final point.

The battle truly burgeoned in the third set when Mt. Rainier neared elimination.

Kentwood hitting strength returned to create a 20-11 dominance in the third set, but Mt. Rainier dug in and toughed it out to stay in striking range.

Facing a 23-15 disadvantage, the Rams utilized some magnificent blocks by Sophia DeBiase and an ace down the sideline by Hardy as part of nine consecutive MR points and a 24-23 lead. 

    KW tied the score at 24 ahead of a Sophia DeBiase left side kill, but a trio of Kentwood points kept Mt. Rainier from extending the action further.

    "I'm pleased and enjoyed playing for him," concluded Sophia DeBiase. "We've obviously grown."

Playing for the 12-7 Mt. Rainier Rams at bi-district were Mia Blankenship, Marie Leiataua, Marissah Banuelos, Alyssa DeBiase, Anna Hardy, Lenka BIshoff, Haley Williams, Bryana Jenkins, Joanne Robson, Sofia DeBiase, Gabriella Durante, Malaysiah Banuelos, Catrine Chanturidze and Jayla Poole.

Head coach Taitano was joined by assistant coaches Moyd Miyashiro, Ginger Lotuleilei, and Memory Pomale.