It’s Not How You Start

Santa Monica, CA - Prior to Western State Conference South Division play, things arguably could't have been more difficult for the Citrus College Volleyball team. Citrus didn't pick up their first victory until their 13th game of the year, and they entered conference play with a 2-15 record. The Owls proved that it's not how you start, but how you finish as they never lost sight of the bigger picture and never gave up. That effort paid off as they finished off conference play a solid 4-4 after beating Santa Monica College in four sets on Friday evening in their final match of the year. 

 The Owls put together arguably their best set of the season in the opening frame, committing just one attack error, on their way to a 25-21 victory. Citrus continued on a strong arc, but had six errors in the second frame before falling 25-27. Despite the possible loss of momentum, the Owls regained their focus and went on to close out the Corsairs over the final two sets 25-19 and 25-14. 

In the win, sophomore Paige Madkin led the way with a match high 18 kills. Freshman Briana Voght added 13, while sophomore Lauren Valenciana and freshmen Leah Price and Amanda Belzl all had seven a piece. Price would add a team high 21 digs, while freshmen setters Patrisha Sangalang and Moriah Gordon split time, with each passing out 26 assists a piece. 

With the win, Citrus finished the season with a 6-19 overall record and 4-4 mark in conference play.