The Auburn Mountainview volleyball team entered uncharted territory last week, ranked No. 1 in the state among Class 3A teams.
It’s the first time in the school’s four-year history that any athletic program has been top-ranked in the state.
“I was really pleased,” Auburn Mountainview coach Momi Bowles said. “With five returners, it has really put it in perspective this year that we have a special opportunity to do something … it’s definitely the most deserving group I have ever coached.”
Those returners include: Oregon State-bound setter Megan McBride, middle hitter Alexi Morton, outside hitter Krystle Hansen, libero Alex Odren and outside hitter Sharlaya Thomas.
Despite the lofty ranking, the Lions were unable to handle East Valley of Spokane last Saturday in the championship match of the Puget Sound Adidas Invitational held at Auburn Mountainview, falling in two games 25-18 and 25-19.
The second-place finish is Auburn Mountainview’s best in the three years of hosting the tournament, which included 15 teams that qualified for state last season.
The Lions earned the championship berth after knocking off Bainbridge, Inglemoor, Lake Stevens, White River Archbishop Murphy and city-rival Auburn Riverside. Just days after the loss, the Lions dropped to No. 3 in the poll as East Valley vaulted to No. 1.
But that doesn’t diminish what the team already has accomplished and what lies ahead, Bowles said.
“There’s definitely a real high energy (for volleyball) at this school that I haven’t seen since it opened,” the coach said. “We’re looking forward to getting better.”
If all goes as hoped, the Lions will do just that. And, in the process, get another crack at East Valley, which can only happen at the state tournament in November.
Elsewhere
Thomas Jefferson recently dispatched Decatur in three games – 25-11, 25-13, 25-12 – behind Morgan Green’s nine kills and two blocks. Kendra Ansotigue delivered five Aces, six kills and three digs for the Raiders (2-0 SPSL 4A). Rachelle Eckert had three aces and five kills, Katelyn Nugent supplied two aces and six kills, while Allie Crowe dished out 25 assists.
