Winning athletes are set apart by their drive to go two beyond what is expected of them. The athlete with the rule of two mindset will always surpass their opponent, both in heart and in stamina. This year we had the unique opportunity of blending the refined skills of veteran players with the fresh potential of newcomers. This combination coupled with hard work, dedication, and collegiate level training enabled our varsity volleyball girls to achieve great things as individuals and helped us reach our destination as a team.
Summer league games and training concluded with promise as our Lady Warriors tied for third in the tournament at VVC against local public high school teams. Regular season began with a kick start as the girls took 2nd place in the annual Trona tournament. As the season progressed, so did the skills, confidence, and cohesiveness of our team. This year was distinct in that non-league games were interspersed throughout league competition. Our girls took the opportunity to play each opponent with a winning mindset; every non-league game was won, not only in the hearts and minds of our athletes, but on the scoreboard as well. Being one of five teams within the Agape League, our Lady Warriors had three opportunities to play Hesperia Christian, Victor Christian, AAE, and Excelsior. Each match literally felt like a tug-of-war because the competing teams were of similar caliber. This, however, provided us with the tools necessary to finish strong in league and thrust us into playoffs fully prepared. Clenching third in League, we entered into playoffs with high expectations and the rule of two in mind.
In the first round, against Marywood in Palm Springs, our Lady Warriors swept the Firebirds in three sets, thus advancing our team farther than any other girls’ varsity volleyball team in AVC’s most recent history. This, in and of itself, was a huge accomplishment. Second round, we had the honor of hosting Rolling Hills Prep in our own gym. The first set was a battle, but ended victorious. The three that followed brought to life the phrase, “Leave everything on the court.” These sets displayed every ounce of determination that our girls had in them. Between bloody noses, twisted ankles, bumped knees, loss of wind, and sheer exhaustion, our 2010 Lady Warriors truly left everything on the court, surpassing all expectations and ultimately reaching our final destination…finishing with the rule of two.
Our overall record was 14-7, only losing to three different teams. We are so blessed to have had such an amazing support system encouraging us from day one; God is good. George Mangum, our coach with the “BAM!” and a collegiate level trainer, instilled in us the mentality of a winning athlete spurred on by the rule of two. Thank you George! To the parents and families, staff and student body, whose investment goes beyond words and is without measure, thank you! This was an incredibly unforgettable season.
Coaches, Hannah and JoAnna Tribole
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