The Canyon Hills Rattlers showcased resilience and determination in the first round and the quarter-finals of the San Diego CIF Girls Volleyball tournament securing a hard-fought victory against the Montgomery High Aztecs in the first round and Southwest EC High Eagles in the quarter-finals. Despite their strong performance earlier in the tournament, the team couldn’t overcome their semifinal opponents, the Lincoln High Hornets.
First Round of the Playoffs
The atmosphere on Wednesday, October 30th was electric! The opening set seemed challenging for Montgomery, as they struggled to find their rhythm against Canyon Hills. Fortunately for Canyon Hills, they were starting off strong, winning the first set.
With confidence and excitement rising, Canyon Hills carried their momentum into the second set. They dominated from the start, with great defensive tactics and determined saves and aces left and right. An ace is when a player makes a point from serving the ball without it being touched. Their students were exhilarated seeing their team win!
The third set, however, was where the tide turned. Montgomery was winning midway point. Could Canyon Hills make their comeback? Fortunately for them, yes! Canyon Hills got the same momentum and they were back and better than ever, sealing their spot for the quarter-finals.
Saturday, November 2nd was just as successful, winning all three sets! The final scores were 25-17 in the first set and 25-18 in the second and final set.
Semifinal game
Wednesday, November 6th was promised to be an unforgettable volleyball game. Only, this was when Canyon Hills’ hopes of winning the tournament cut short.
After losing the first set 25-19, The Canyon Hills volleyball team remained persistent and fought hard in the second set making the game tied 1-1. This brought intensity throughout the crowd, with each team rallying together to stay ambitious in the match.
Despite the Rattler’s efforts, their team defense was tested to its limits, and the opponent’s well-timed attacks helped them seal the set 22-25. It was now 2-1, this next set would mark the final stan
d and secure the Hornet’s spot into the finals.
This final set had every player playing with everything they had, but in all competitions, only one side takes it all. Despite a hard-fought effort, Canyon Hills suffered a heartbreaking defeat losing the fourth set 12-25, being 1-3.
For the players, coaches, and supporters, the loss was painful, but it also marked the end of an incredible season. While this defeat stings, it’s also a reminder that every loss is an opportunity for growth.
