So, anyone out there with the knowledge and experience to speculate on how local teams will be ranked to start the season?? come-on someone take a shot at it!! Campo now D-3 with big seniors and some freshman hieght will be a factor this year. Miramonte, lost a few good seniors...they will have to work hard to return to NCS finals. Castro Valley, will be a long tough season...lost key players with little new help moving up. Deer Valley, again a team to watch...season could go hot or cold. Odowd, they look deep and strong through-out the roster. Should be highly ranked and favored to three-peat as NCS champs. Now, lets hear from the pros of east bay girls high school vb.
I'll take a stab at the EBAL for this season. Defending NCS D1 and EBAL champion San Ramon Valley graduated all 6 starters from last year's squad, and will have their work cut out for them. NCS runner up Granada (Shaver) has some quality returnees and should be a strong contender again this season. Cal HS (Didio) beat every EBAL team at least once last season, but didn't get a chance to play at NCS due to their missing the NCS seeding meeting, but they lost their 2 first team all league stallions and should not be as good. Foothill (Dewitt), Amador Valley (Vickers, Williams & Baker) and Carondelet (Lamet) are always tough and will be in the mix, while Livermore looks to continue their improvement from last year and Monte Vista has nowhere to go but up. This league was as balanced as it could possibly be last year, and it may be the same this year. If pushed, I would have to go with AV and Granada to battle for the first two spots, Foothill and Carondelet volley for 3-4, Cal & SRV scrap for 6-7, while MV and Livermore fight it out for the last two spots. But anything can and usually does happen in the EBAL.
I would say your prognostication looks pretty close to my guess. Although as you said, anything can happen. Dusty gets more out of any team than is possible, which keeps FHS at the top every year. Soon we'll see if there are any surprises.
Yay for girl's volleyball!!! I have a personal interest so I may enjoy it quite a bit this year. Not much to say about Deer Valley and the BVAL since there really is not that much comp this year. Heritage may step up but I don't know. The fight is for the bridesmaid in that league. I just hope DV gets enough tough matches to be ready for the playoffs.
The EBAL should be the amazing Grace and AV show. The only caveat is that Dusty will have his usually good team in fighting form. So it won't be a cakewalk. Carondelet learned how rough this league is last year and should have adjusted. They were never out of games or overmatched last year but they had to figure out how to close teams out in this league. If Jerry figured that out, they'll be in the hunt. I for one always thinks Granada looks good - in the preseason - but once those league games start, they tighten up a bit. I'll be interested to see what happens this year. SRV should fall to the middle of the pack but they know how to overachieve. So they may fool everyone. I'm not too happy that Cal lost their coach behind that meeting snafu. I hoped that Courtney talked him into staying since he did help the boys out last year but if he doesn't maybe she'll jump in because they'll be in the mix. If not, oh well, there's always underwater basket weaving. Livermore actually looked good at times last year. Just the wrong league for them but I do think they might surprise some folks now.
The grapevine was whispering that BOD lost their first year coach. Not sure if that's true but if it is, that might disrupt things unless Tim's planning on coming back. The same suspects (Castro Valley and Moreau) will battle but those two may have fallen a step off.
Not sure about any other leagues right now without getting a glimpse of what's going on but when school starts and they finalize their teams and scrimmage, it should clear things up.
Mr. T, I understand that Cal's coach changed his mind and decided to come back. He felt terrible over that NCS incident, and rightfully so, but live and learn. With 3 all league players coming back, AV should be the favorite, but you're right that Dusty's teams should never be counted out (and that Dewitt can really pound the ball).
Thanks 001, if that's the case, then the AD finally did something right because he really is a good coach, teacher and motivator. The girls like him and they can build on what they've put together. They'll be competitive. I forgot to mention Monte Vista but I'm not sure if their coach stayed around. She may have decided to focus on club ball. Regardless, I think they were going to have a hard time this year and may get bumped by Livermore.
I really can't tell you anything because I don't know. It's just something I heard in passing. It doesn't make much sense but if there is something to it, I'll find out soon enough.
As far as Campo, Miramonte and the DFAL are concerned, there's not much to talk about until we see who's left. My guess, which is strictly in the blind, would be Miramonte because they had some young talent there that looked like they could step right in but I don't know enough yet.
...it would have been nice to hear from the O'dowd Coach.
O'dowd's roster looks like a who's - who of local talent...a quick check of NCVA shows a large majority of their team were members of Gold level Power league teams attending the J.O.'s
Here is the first edition of the Volleyball Notes. Enjoy.
A couple of top-notch North Coast Section volleyball programs have seen changes at the top during the off-season, with some new coaches taking over at highly regarded schools. Monte Vista High introduces Derek Phan as its new coach, as he takes over for Prima Elam and Las Lomas now has Sean Farlin on the bench instead of Christina Conroy. While those are big changes, the biggest change happened at Miramonte High School. The Matadors, who went 37-7 last year, were runner’s up in the NCS Division III playoffs and reached the NorCal semifinals in the state playoffs, will no longer have Chris Wells on the sidelines. Wells, the Bay Area News Group’s East Bay coach of the year, has stepped down which has opened the door for a Miramonte graduate, Shannon Ross. The 25-year old Ross, who graduated from MHS in 2002 where she lettered in volleyball for four years, served as an assistant to Wells last year. “Certainly this is a transitional year,” Ross said. “But because I served as an assistant varsity coach last year, it has given me the tools for a smooth transition.” The University of Oregon graduate knows she has some big shoes to fill and a lot is expected out of the Miramonte program this year. “I do feel some pressure, any coach in my situation would,” Ross said. “We had an amazing year last year and I hope to follow it up with another great season.” With seven returning key players, the Matadors should not only be favored to win the Diablo Foothill Athletic League, but reaching the NCS title game again should be within reach. Miramonte enters the season ranked No. 2 in the Bay Area News Group’s East Bay Coaches poll. The team they are ranked behind, however, is another D III school. Bishop O’Dowd has the top spot, and the Dragons beat Miramonte in the championship match last year. “I think we expect to do well,” Ross said. “We know we have a target on our backs and at times it will be tough but we are very, very hungry. Success for me would for me would be for all my players as individuals and then improve together as a team. But I would also like to get back to the NCS finals.” One thing that will work in the favor of the Matadors is the return of last year’s DFAL MVP and Bay Area News Group East Bay player of the year, Juliana Stivanicevic. Now in her senior season, the outside hitter and leader of the Mats should be even more of a tremendous force. “Having a player like Juliana is very special,” Ross said. “She brings so much to our team. She has amazing talent, a tremendous heart and great leadership abilities. I think she can be a completely dominant player this year and I believe she can absolutely be the player of the year for the second year in a row.” The admiration Ross has for Stivanicevic is shared by the star player as well, who is singing praise for the new coach. “She’s amazing,” Stivanicevic said. “She brings such a positive energy into the gym and she’s a commanding presence. Everyone feeds off her energy and we expect great things.” The Mats will also benefit from having a pair of fantastic setters in Mary Diamantidis and Sarah Vaccaro as well as other returning players like Haley Sayles.
Rankings
Here is the Bay Area News Group East Bay Coaches pre-season volleyball poll. As you can see, Division III is well represented with NCS champion Bishop O’Dowd coming in at No. 1 and runner-up Miramonte snagging the No. 2 ranking. Defending Division I champ San Ramon Valley graduated some key players, but are still being respected as the Wolves are ranked sixth with D I runner-up Granada sliding in at No. 8. Campolindo, a DFAL team that could challenge Miramonte, is ranked fifth. The Cougars were the D II runners-up last season. The DFAL is well represented with Las Lomas at No. 12 and Acalanes at No. 15. The top ranked East Bay Athletic League team is No. 3 Amador Valley, which returns the area’s top middle, Grace Vickers. Foothill (No. 7), Carondelet (No. 10), California (No. 13) and Monte Vista (No. 14) assure that the EBAL is well represented. Deer Valley is highly ranked at No. 4 and should set the pace in the Bay Valley Athletic League, while Castro Valley (No. 9) should be the class of the Hayward Area Athletic League and Albany (No. 11) looks to remain the force in the Bay Shore Athletic League.
1. Bishop O’Dowd 2. Miramonte 3. Amador Valley 4. Deer Valley 5. Campolindo 6. San Ramon Valley 7. Foothill 8. Granada 9. Castro Valley 10. Carondelet 11. Albany 12. Las Lomas 13. California 14. Monte Vista 15. Acalanes
Others receiving votes: Northgate, Piedmont, St. Mary’s, Mission San Jose, Berean Christian, Liberty, Logan.
Let me begin the nitpicking. I really like volleyball and for those that are new here, I'm always big on EBAL teams because they are always good and competitive games. I know the polls will shake out as the season goes on and as hard as it is to debate the top two teams, I will. Just by looking at the top fifteen, EBAL fills 7 of the slots (SRV should probably sink and MV will fall). Considering AV is essentially returning their entire team, somebody should have screamed louder for them to be #1. I like BOD and Mira and I understand the reasoning for their placement but just like Carondelet (a good team that would have challenged Campo, Las Lomas & Carillo in DII - if they could have made the playoffs) learned last year, there are no easy games in this league and whoever stands out can make a good case for being the best in the area. Especially if 7 of 8 teams in that league are in the top 15. The good thing is there are some good to great tournaments this year (Deer Valley, Northgate, Chico, Castro Valley, etc...) to settle things.
As we all know, polls, especially preseason high school polls, are completly meaningless. The only good thing about them is that it gets the talk and interest started. I agree - Amador could be rated to low, Miramonte and maybe BOD and especially Deer Valley are way to high and everyone else, who knows. The Wolverine Invitational kicks off the season on Sept 12 - most of the teams in the poll are gonna be there. After that weekend polls might make some sense.
I would not agree they are meaningless...presuming the polls are based on some understanding of team rosters, player skills and experience.
Polls such as these give coaches and teams an idea of how strong or weak they are perceived to be relative to their competition. This hopefully is translated by coaches into a plan of action during practices and game prep. It also provides an idea of where coaches should spend time scouting/researching teams if they foresee playing them during the regular or post season.
I personally like the coverage the CC times provides, but would like to see additional coverage of HS Girls VB if at all possible.
By Matt Smith Monday, August 31st, 2009 at 1:04 pm
Here is the second week of the East Bay Girls Volleyball Notebook. We’re talking Deer Valley Tournament and getting to know Amador Valley’s Grace Vickers. Enjoy.
What would North Coast Section girls volleyball be without the Deer Valley Invitational? The tournament has always been a great early season display of teams to watch for in the East Bay, and the 14th annual Wolverine Varsity Invitational will be no exception. On Saturday Sep. 12, we will have an idea of the team’s to watch out for as the level of play promises to be very high. Nine out of the 15 teams ranked in the Bay Area News Group’s East Bay Girls Volleyball Coaches Poll are going to be present including: Bishop O’Dowd (No. 1), Amador Valley (No. 3), Deer Valley (No. 4), San Ramon Valley (No. 6), Foothill (No. 7) Castro Valley (No. 9), Carondelet (No. 10), Albany (No. 11) and Acalanes (No. 15). “Over the past few years we’ve been able to attract some of the better teams around,” Deer Valley coach Lou Panzella said. “We are the first big tournament in the area, and thankfully some of the best teams in NCS want to participate.” Other East Bay teams taking part will be Concord, Liberty, Northgate and St. Patrick-St. Vincent. There will also be a few out of area teams that are very good which include Maria Carrillo-Petaluma, Presentation-San Jose and Sacred Heart Cathedral-San Francisco. Carrillo won the NCS DivisionII title and reached the NorCal semi-finals, Presentation reached the Central Coast Section’s Division II quarterfinals before running into eventual champ Archbishop Mitty and Sacred Heart was the CCS Division III champion. “Each year the tournament seems to get more balanced with no clear cut favorite,” Panzella said. “Last year when seeding I really felt anyone of at least 10 different teams had a real shot at winning. Seeding has become increasingly difficult, as witnessed by last year’s final with Deer Valley and Granada. Both teams came out of the same pool.” Granada, the defending champion, won’t be in the tournament this year. Panzella is regretful that the Matadors will not be as a communication error is responsible for keeping them out. It still promises to be a very competitive tournament and even some good teams are going to struggle. Once the tournament gets into the quarterfinals and the semifinals, expect intense volleyball with a playoff atmosphere. “This year there will be a very, very good team that will come in and go 1-4 or 0-5 on the day, but will still be a very high quality team,” Panzella said. “I don’t think we have any really weak teams. But the real reason our tournament has been good is because we have great local teams, with outstanding coaches who return year after year. They make the tournament work.” The tournament will get underway at 8:30 a.m., with finals scheduled for around 7:00 p.m. There will be a $5 entry fee, with $2 of every fee being donated to the American Diabetes Association.
Rankings
The rankings will stay the same this week. We’ll have an update next week when most teams have started playing.
1. Bishop O’Dowd 2. Miramonte 3. Amador Valley 4. Deer Valley 5. Campolindo 6. San Ramon Valley 7. Foothill 8. Granada 9. Castro Valley 10. Carondelet 11. Albany 12. Las Lomas 13. California 14. Monte Vista 15. Acalanes
Others receiving votes: Northgate, Piedmont, St. Mary’s, Mission San Jose, Berean Christian, Liberty, Logan.
I love the fact that the DV tourney is really the tipping point for this season. A lot of tough teams trying to get in that first blow. Everyone will have a real good idea of where they stand and what they have to do to step up once the final whistle blows.
I agree with VBfan88; that first ranking of the season doesn't predict the November finishes. It makes me wonder what the coaches who were polled, were considering. Knowing which stars graduated this summer, should have impacted their poll. As Mr Temptation mentioned, MV will likely not be on the list, and AV will likely be on top. DV Jamboree today may not be where this season's starting lineups are exposed, but you could still see the flaws in the coach's rankings.
It was great to see the Vball community today, 2009 season beginning on such a beautiful day in Antioch.
You are never sure if coaches are experimenting, trying new lineups or getting some bench players PT, but some of the teams that looked really good today were Carondelet, Albany, Campo, Granada, Foothill, Deer Valley. Not in that order.
The Deer Valley Invitational next week should help sort things out.
Tom was there and had a new assistant. Team looked great considering last year's starters are gone. Sarah Board is a terrific setter, smart and calm, putting the ball where it needs to go. The team is made up of solid club girls. Although they won't likely take league, they should have a competitive season.
Let them "self-promote", jump up and down, scream or do whatever they want on these "respectable" boards. Who cares? I would like to hear anyone and everyone's opinion on this volleyball season. Parents, players and the POTUS if he wants to come on here and write about it. Let the conversation go on. Pride makes for some interesting exchanges.
Wednesday, 9/09/2009 - 12:00 p.m. PDT — BOD vs Campo
LifeIsVlyball
Joined: Nov 2008
Current Posts: 12
I've seen both teams this year and predict BOD will come away with the W. Their seasoned talent will prevail. Campo has some real talent as well, but not as many seniors, and they aren't playing together as a team as cohesively as BOD.
I agree there is nothing wrong with some self-promotion, as long as it is in good taste. I saw nothing wrong with any of the prior comments relating to the Wolves. Certainly, if they get on here and start bad-mouthing Monte Vista players, I could see a problem. But the Wolves supporters have always done a good job in discussing v-ball in the past and there is no reason to silence them now.
It looks like the Amador-Miramonte match last night was a good one, with AV taking them in 4 close games. I think Mr. T was right in putting AV in as the EBAL favorites this season. They just have so many strong returnees.
When asked how the wolves looked, I simply responded honestly as to what I saw. I have absolutely no affiliation with SRVHS, nor any reason to "promote" anyone on the team. So there was absolutely no bias. Jump to conclusions much?
As I suspected, it was a fight last night in Oakland with Campo winning in 4 (25-23,23-25,25-23,25-21)
Campo's defense with great blocking and flawless digging slowed Odowd's power offense just enough to keep Campo in all the games. Odowd's passing game was off the mark all night long with endless errors in the backrow never allowing their setters to run clean plays. Odowd's blockers seemed a bit slow, never quite able to shut down Eberhart or Schurtz.
Odowd however did show in game four, despite lossing, how powerfull they are. Odowd was down by 8 at (7-15) and went on a 11-3 run to tie the score at 18 and kept it tied until 21.
I foresee these two meeting for the NCS Title in November.
P.S. I also cannot wait to see what happens this weekend at DV.
That looks like it was a great match last night. Congrats to Campo. Should be some more great matches this weekend.
Smith: Should be a September to remember for East Bay girls volleyball
By Matt Smith Correspondent
Posted: 09/10/2009 01:52:02 AM PDT
Updated: 09/10/2009 01:53:10 AM PDT
By now everyone should be aware that the Deer Valley Tournament, a huge early season who's who of North Coast Section girls volleyball, is this Saturday. But where else can good games be found for the month of September? Well, I'm glad you asked.
It starts today, with a big preseason match between Miramonte and Amador Valley in Pleasanton. The Matadors are ranked No. 2 in this weeks Bay Area News Group's East Bay Coaches Poll and the Dons are ranked third. The very next day, the top-ranked Bishop O'Dowd Dragons will be put to the test when they host Campolindo. The Cougars are ranked No. 5. The Cougars are then involved in a big match a week later, taking on No. 7 Foothill at home.
On Sep. 17, Miramonte is tested again, this time welcoming in No. 8 Granada. The Matadors (Granada, that is) are the NCS Division I runners up from last year and the Matadors (Miramonte, this time) were the runners up in D III. Toward the end of the month, there are a lot of league games to keep an eye on, including an East Bay Athletic League battle that will see No. 9 San Ramon Valley travel to take on No. 6 Carondelet on Sep. 22. On Sep. 29 there is another key league battle, this time in the Diablo Foothill Athletic League as Campolindo travels to take on Miramonte.
On top of that, there is the Albany Tournament on Sep. 19 that the tenth-ranked Cougars are hosting and many good teams will be present. With schedules being incomplete early on, it was impossible to find all the good matches, and some will definitely materialize as the month goes on with teams proving themselves.
So it kicks off this weekend and then the month will be littered with great volleyball. Remember, the DV tournament will get underway at 8:30 a.m., with finals scheduled for around 7 p.m. There will be a $5 entry fee, with $2 of every fee being donated to the American Diabetes Association.
Rankings
Not much movement in the rankings. This weekened will go a long way in sorting some things out for the early part of the season. For now, the top five stay the same. Carondelet makes the biggest jump, moving from No. 11 to No. 6. Other than that, there were only small shifts. Nobody moved in or out this week.
1. Bishop O'Dowd
2. Miramonte
3. Amador Valley
4. Deer Valley
5. Campolindo
6. Carondelet
7. Foothill
8. Granada
9. San Ramon Valley
10. Albany
11. Castro Valley
12. California
13. Acalanes
14. Monte Vista
15. Las Lomas
Others receiving votes: Northgate, Berean Christian, Liberty, Mission San Jose, Heritage.
Lots of very good, competitive matches - really no weak teams - great volleyball, plus part of the entry fee charged at the door is being donated to Diabetes association
weird day started with thunder & lightning and rain - in September?
I'm hearing second hand that there is a lot of upside to the Albany player. Raw talent, probably new to the sport, but has more athleticism as a freshman than anyone currently playing the sport in the east bay.
This week’s girls volleyball notes. A lot of stuff happening. It’s not about where you start, it’s about where you finish. However, if the starting point for the Bishop O’Dowd High School girls volleyball season is any indication, the Dragons should finish with a great year. After winning the North Coast Section’s Division III title a year ago, they return 10 players making it no surprise that the Dragons were picked as the No. 1 team in the Bay Area News Group’s East Bay coaches poll.
“There is definitely pressure entering the season as the top team,” Bishop O’Dowd coach Mike Gee said. “Every team you play is gunning for you and there is a big target on your back, so there is a lot of pressure.” But with so many returning players, the Dragons are a team that can handle the pressure that comes with high expectations. “Certainly the experience that our returners got from last season will help us,” Gee said. “We’ve got the talent, we’ve got the size and we’ve got the athleticism but it will be about what we’ve learned.” Among the returning players for the Dragons is outside hitter, Katie Huntington who can be a dominant force on a team with many different dominant players and many different options.
“We’re very excited. Every match and every game is a challenge,” Huntington said. “That ranking is a confidence booster. Every practice of ours is super competitive and we are pushing each other to be the best that we can be. It’s a challenge. It’s not necessarily easy, but it’s fun and after practice you feel like you’ve accomplished something.” What Bishop O’Dowd, which is currently ranked No. 3, hopes to accomplish, is a deep run in the state playoffs. Last year they were knocked out in the NorCal quarterfinals by Valley Christian-San Jose.
“Obviously we want to reach our goals of winning NCS and going to state,” Huntington said. “But if something happens along the way and we don’t, it’s not a waste. We’ll grow and have a good time together. Hopefully we get to state, but it’s about having fun and if nothing else it will be a good experience for those coming back next year.” Playing a tough non-league schedule, which includes matches against Campolindo and Sacred Heart Cathedral-San Francisco, as well ast the Deer Valley Tournament, the Durango Classic in Las Vegas, the Great Eight Tournament in Sacramento and the Northgate Tournament, should have them prepared for a playoff run.
And with returning players like libero Rachel Stier, outside hitter/middle Alexandra Lynch, setter/outside Lindsey Parrott and oustside/middle Andrea Olsen, they have the firepower and the drive to make such a run. “We definitely have a competitive spirit,” Gee said. “We have a lot of weapons and they do a good job of being steady and consistent. Our drive could be the difference.”
Deer Valley Tournament
It’s still very early in the season, but the Deer Valley Tournament did help us sort a few things out. We know that Amador Valley and Bishop O’Dowd are very good. Both teams could have easily made the finals, and the Dons probably should have. They led 19-13 in the second game of their semifinal match with Sacred Heart Cathedral, and after having won the first game, were in prime position to close the door. But they did not and the Irish came back for the win. Amador Valley has now split a pair of matches with Sacred Heart in tournament play.
The Dragons lost to the eventual champion, Presentation of San Jose, but after a few early miscues they looked to get timid and kind of got away from their game. This O’Dowd team is still figuring a few things out, but boy are they talented. Albany, Northgate and Carondelet made good statements on Saturday, and after a rough go in pool play, Foothill bounced back to win the consolation bracket. I’ve always said you never bet against a team coached by Dusty Collins. Foothill will be tough this year despite the rough start to the morning.
Rankings
Now that the Deer Valley Tournament has told us a bit, and now that we have an idea of what most of the teams are up to, here are the updated rankings. As you can see, Amador Valley slides into the No. 1 spot, with Campolindo coming in at No. 2 and Bishop O’Dowd at No. 3. I still get the sense that the Dragons are considered the most talented and dangerous team.
Let’s welcome Northgate and Liberty to the rankings, coming in at No. 8 and No. 10, respectively, after impressive showings at Deer Valley. Moreau Catholic, Clayton Valley and Berean Christian are new to the rankings as well. Miramonte slides down two spots to No. 4, with Carondelet rounding out the top five. The biggest changes see Albany jump four spots to No. 6, Foothill drops four spots to No. 11 and Castro Valley, California, Monte Vista, Acalanes and Las Lomas slide out this week. The biggest drop sees Deer Valley fall from No. 4 to No. 12, but never count out the Wolverines. They’ll be in the mix all season long.
1. Amador Valley
2. Campolindo
3. Bishop O’Dowd
4. Miramonte
5. Carondelet
6. Albany
7. Granada
8. Northgate
9. San Ramon Valley
10. Liberty
11. Foothill
12. Deer Valley
13. Moreau Catholic
14. Clayton Valley
15. Berean Christian
Others receiving votes: Castro Valley, Mission San Jose, St. Patrick-St. Vincent, Monte Vista, California.
Does anyone know the teams attending this Saturday's Albany Tournament, or know where one might find it? I've checked Albany H.S. Website, and can't find anything.
Does anyone know the teams attending this Saturday's Albany Tournament, or know where one might find it? I've checked Albany H.S. Website, and can't find anything.
"If they beat Mira, Campo will surely be a serious threat to BOD's three-peat NCS title hopes."
They are already a serious threat, regardless of who wins theCampo-Mira grudge match. To go to Pleasanton and beat AV on the road, they have served notice they can play with anyone. Sounds like it was a great match.
"001" i'm also a Campo supporter. It seems very likely BOD will be defending their Title against either Campo or Mira. The Campo/Mira grudge match is likely to make it clear which team BOD will see. A Campo/BOD title match would be a grudge match for Campo, as BOD's NCS title run started agianst Campo two years ago.
The poll has now officially become Bay Area News Group’s East Bay Rankings, which I am doing myself based on all the info I am gathering. They aren’t changing much this week. There are a few adjustments, one being Campolindo moving up to the top and Amador Valley sliding down one notch. Albany moves up one spot to No. 5 and Granada moves up one to No. 6. Also, welcome Heritage and Salesian to the top 15.
1. Campolindo
2. Amador Valley
3. Bishop O’Dowd
4. Miramonte
5. Albany
6. Granada
7. Carondelet
8. Northgate
9. San Ramon Valley
10. Liberty
11. Foothill
12. Deer Valley
13. Heritage
14. Salesian
15. Moreau Catholic
Others considered: Berean Christian, Irvington, Mission San Jose, Washington, Clayton Valley, St. Patrick-St. Vincent, St. Mary’s, Castro Valley, California, Alameda.
3 out of the 4 teams making the semis were NCS D3 teams. It definitely seems like D3 is loaded with talented teams. Albany has some talented defensive players and a few offensive guns that are capable of making big plays. They struggled to get much going against Drake, who defeated Albany in straight sets. Drake seemed to have a lot more left in the tank late in the day. Drake looked pretty good. They serve well and run a very fast offense. Albany was unable to stop Drake's quick attack patterns. Drake should definitely be a threat in NCS.
I didn't see much of the other semifinal match going on, but I believe Miramonte defeated Marin Catholic on their way to defending their title against Drake in the finals.
Miramonte took the first game 25-15. Their tough jump serves were too much for Drake to get any kind of offense going early in the game. Miramonte was on cruise control steaming through game 1. Game 2 was a different story. Miramonte struggled to pass in serve receive as Drake started to stick their serves. Miramonte was probably just caught sleeping a bit after an easy win in the first game. Both teams looked pretty physical at the net, but Drake ran off several back-to-back blocks to give them a comfortable lead. Drake took the second game 25-16. The third game was pretty interesting. For anyone who was there, you know what I'm talking about. Lets just say it was a long day for everyone... including the refs. As things started to pick up, it looked like Drake would take game 3, however, Miramonte just wouldn't allow it. Still upset with their losses to Drake last year, Miramonte wanted to make a statement. And they sure did. Before you knew it Miramonte had taken the third game 15-7.
Look out for these two teams. Drake has got some serious fire power and a very fast offense. Good luck stopping them when their taking care of the ball. As far as Miramonte goes... don't get on their bad side. When this team turns it on it's lights out for their opponent.
Based on what I've seen over the last few weeks it looks like any of this week's top four teams could be No. 1.
O'Dowd d. Sacred Heart Cathedral in straight sets on Tuesday on the road without 6-3 senior MB Andrea Olsen (committed to Notre Dame), who suffered an ankle sprain early in game 1. 5-5 senior OH Molly Kennedy would answer the call and take Olsen's place for the rest of the match. She said she had played middle before... so we went with it.
Downing Sacred Heart in straight sets should send a message to other Div 3 teams.
coachmikegee, any stats available for us vball fans. Haven't found anything on Maxprep. Can you post?
Amador Valley lost to Sacred Heart in 3 at DV Tourny, and Miramonte lost to Amador. I would expect to see O'dowd move up to #2 in the East Bay rankings next week, with Amador dropping to #3.
I see Campo beat Los Lomas last night...but it took 4 games....that was a surprise to some.
My money's on Campo & Odowd in a NCS 3 title battle in Nov.
I wouldn't be so quick to move AV down the list. AV has also beaten Scared Heart Cathedral. If Sacred Heart played at full strength in their recent match vs BOD, then a straight set win is an accomplishment. Yes, it would have been nice to see a head to head match-up of BOD and AV at DV. But anything can happen after you play 5 matches in a day.
vbs001, it appears you are a Amador supporter. Your team looks good. It was a great match with Campo!! Sorry we won.
I meant no insult by suggesting AV may drop to #3. It was simply based on the fact BOD went to S.F. and beat SHCP at home in straight sets with scores that appear to reflect that only the last game might have been close. SHCP rarely loses at home, except to Mitty.
As far as the DV tourny, SHCP went on to play a sixth match with Pres and took them to 3 games before lossing. Pres beat Odowd in 2 at DV and beat Campo in straight sets (3 of 5 formate) at the Mitty Tourny.
Perhaps your coach can speak with the odowd coach, and if their respective schedules have room within league allowed limited, you can arrange a match. It would be one hell of a match to watch. Could be a great fundraiser to sell tickets.
No insult taken.I see a lot of volleyball and support many of the teams. The comment regarding “full strength” is really a question.At DV, SH played Presentation in the finals without two of their strongest hitters on the court. Sacred Heart also beat Presentation at the Milpitas Tourney full strength. For many of these teams, especially in high school, it makes a difference if teams are missing players. In the top teams in the East Bay rankings there really isn’t a powerhouse.On any given day you could see a different outcome.
There’s some great volleyball to be seen in the East Bay, some very good players making their last rounds as seniors, and many of these players will go on to play in college. It’s just a pleasure to watch and appreciate the skill.
What I have seen so far is that no bay area team is head and shoulders above the other teams. Every one of the top tier teams are capable of beating of beating everyone else and that's what's been happening. Now that we're getting into league play, just look for the team that can finally hit it's stride and take it into the playoffs. The rankings will be in flux for the rest of the season. I still think AV is probably the best but I've seen them have let downs at the most inopportune times and that will continue to bite them until they correct it. They've got too much talent not to finish on top.
It is my understanding that BOD and SHCP are long time cross bay rivals, as well, past State Level Div 3 competitors...I would sure think SHCP put their best team on the floor Tues night. I also hear the game was web-cast and filmed by Cal Hi Sports. That should have added to SHCP motivation to win!
P.S. I read above that BOD lost their 6-3 starting middle (signed with ND) early in the first game...that should have left a huge hole for SHCP to attack, but BOD adjusted. That's a sign of a strong team!!
As a Campo fan, I'm just a bit concerned about BOD's potental, as they are loaded with talent and when on their "A" game may be hard to stop. I hate to say this, but I don't believe they were on their "A" game when we played them...poor blocking and a load of passing errors.
The EBAL standings are starting to take form after just 2 games, with 3 teams at the top and 3 teams at the bottom. It is clear that Amador is the favorite right now, but Granada and Foothill are right there ready to take over should they fall.
Not many changes this week. Foothill and Deer Valley move up a slot and Berean comes back in. Tuesday’s match when Campolindo visits Miramonte could shake things up.
1. Campolindo 2. Amador Valley 3. Bishop O’Dowd 4. Miramonte 5. Albany 6. Granada 7. Carondelet 8. Northgate 9. San Ramon Valley 10. Foothill 11. Deer Valley 12. Moreau Catholic 13. Salesian 14. Berean Christian 15. Heritage
Others considered: Liberty, Irvington, Mission San Jose, Washington, Clayton Valley, St. Patrick-St. Vincent, St. Mary’s, Alameda, Acalanes, San Leandro.
Miramonte came out ready and focused, Campo did not.
It appeared Campo was over confident and was not prepared to make adjustments for Miramonte blocking.
This was a wake-up call for Campo. They will travel to Sac this weekend for the Great 8 Tourney and face teams like Miramonte all day long...even possibly BOD who is favored to win the Tourney.
As noted above, I'm NOW also glad we will get another chance to play Miramonte.
Hmm ... Campo was not ready, not focused and overconfident. Good golly, lets hope the poor Mats (who are 11 - 1 and won the Albany tournament) can even hang with Campo next time around. Can they get just a modicum of credit for perhaps outplaying Campo on that given night? Some of the generous Campo parents claimed that they though Campo played fairly well and just happend to get slightly outplayed that night. Campo is a very talented team make no mistake about it and the rematch will be a good one again. Let's hope the Mats don't come in not ready, not focused and overconfident ;-)
Congrats to the Mats on their hard fought win, and also to Cal on their first league win over previously unbeaten Foothill. Granada beat MV in 4, Carondelet took down Livermore in 3 and Amador swept SRV in 3. Amador and Granada appear headed for a showdown sometime soon. The EBAL standings now look like this:
I guess when you host a tournament, you can arrange the pools to your favor...most of the time its not quite as obvious as this...clearly pool one will be the place to watch great vball.
I was in Sac yesterday. Campo played very hard against BOD...in a match that determined who moved into the winners bracket. Campo went on a 10-3 run in game one to over come a 20-15 score to win the game 25-23. However, it appeared we ran out of steam and never were in game two or three. As I mentioned a few weeks ago, when BOD plays their "A" game, very hard to stop them. Their setters have weapons every where and if the pass is good it will be a quick set to any spot on the net. Hard to defend and perdict making blocking difficult.
BOD's later victories over CB and St. Francis (who they lost to in pool play) revealed that BOD only got better as the day went on. BOD had only five (unforced) errors (that I noticed) in their final match with St. Francis, two serving errors and three hitting errors. Their passing and blocking was perfect.
I hope we will see BOD again...and will hope it is in the NCS finals.
We must have been watching different games. Game 2 Campo had an 18-14 lead over BOD and the Dragons went on a 11-2 run. Their server had serves that baffled the Campo back row. Great job by the Dragons to keep the "MO" going in game 3 as the Cougs still had issues with passing. After watching both pools play in the morning, it was very clear that Pool "A" had the better teams. The Dragons kept their composure and played very sound volleyball the balance of the tourney. I hope to see BOD again in NCS but if we do, we need to tighten up our game.
Game 1: O'Dowd takes a 3-1 lead with 2 kills and 1 hitting error (HE) by Campo. Campo then jumps ahead 4-3 off a kill, ace, and O'Dowd HE. Things stayed pretty even early on with the score tied at 7-7 and 8-8, but O'Dowd would begin putting small runs together to go up by three in the middle of the first game. After leading 15-12, 18-13, and 20-15 Campo would come alive and go on a 6-0 run to take the lead at 21-20. Tied at 21-21, O'Dowd would make back-to-back hitting errors to give Campo a two point lead. A Campo kill would give them game point 24-21, but O'Dowd wasn't giving up. A kill and a stuff block would keep things interesting at 24-23 with Campo still holding on to game point. Campo would finish it with a kill to steal game 1.
Game 2: Campo would continue to carry their momentum into game 2. Jumping ahead 7-3 and 10-6, it seamed as though Campo would take the match in straight sets. O'Dowd would wake up and take advantage of several unforced errors by Campo to tie things up at 14-14. An O'Dowd service error and hitting error would put Campo up 16-14. Just when it looked like Campo had their two-point cushion back, O'Dowd would go on a 7-0 run stunning Campo's serve-receive passers. Campo would finally side-out to stop the bleeding at 21-17, but a Campo hitting error would give it right back. Now 22-17, Campo would score off back-to-back kills, however it just wasn't enough. O'Dowd would finish the game with a three-point run to send the match to a third game.
Game 3: O'Dowd scores off a kill and stuff block. A service error and Campo kill would tie things up at 2-2. O'Dowd would pull ahead by a Campo net violation, SRE, and a kill by middle blocker Andrea Olsen. An O'Dowd SE and a Campo kill would get the Courgas back within one. A serving error by both teams would make it 6-5 (O'Dowd leads). Campo would miss another serve and hit the ball in the net to put O'Dowd up 8-5. O'Dowd would then go on a 4-1 run to get to 12-6. Both teams would trade kills, but it was all O'Dowd in the end. Now 13-7, back-to-back hitting errors by O'Dowd would keep Campo in the game, however, it was just too late. An O'Dowd kill would give the Dragons match point at 14-9. A Campo kill would let everyone know they weren't going down without a fight, but O'Dowd would answer back and claim the match.
These two teams will likely see each other again at the Northgate Tournament on October 31st.
It was a nice recap if you throw out the word "steal" for game one. The word "earn" would be correct. C'mon Gee:) The player is their second setter. Don't know her name. Very effective server.
I knew this week was going to be hard as far as the rankings are concerned, and there was no way to possibly make everyone happy. The top four were hard to decide on, but I moved Bishop O’Dowd back to No. 1. The Dragons avenged their loss to Campolindo, and they jump Amador Valley because they beat Sacred Heart Cathedral, who the Dons have split with, and beat St. Mary’s-Stockton, who the Dons lost to. Miramonte, though losing to Amador Valley in its first match of the year, moves to No. 2. The Mats swept Campolindo, who beat Amador Valley and have won 10-straight matches. They would have been No. 1 had O’Dowd not beaten Campolindo at the Great-8 Tournament. Campolindo’s win over Amador Valley is more recent than the Dons win over Miramonte, so Campolindo stays at No. 3. I am sure not everyone will love this, but there was no situation that would have made everyone happy. The middle of the rankings were even harder. It was easy to keep Albany and Granada at fifth and sixth, especially with Granada winning the Castro Valley Tournament, but after that it’s a mess. Because they have been consistent and haven’t lost in quite a while, Moreau Catholic jumps to No. 7 and will have a chance to back up that ranking at O’Dowd on Oct. 8. Foothill, who has shown to be Jekyll and Hyde a bit this year, is at No. 8 despite a couple of losses to unranked teams. Recent wins over Northgate and Carondelet assured that. Carondelet, San Ramon Valley, Northage, Deer Valley and Salesian at 9-13 seems to make sense, and in the bottom two spots, welcome in Mission San Jose and Washington. MSJ plays Irvington on Oct. 8, so that will clear some things up in the MVAL race, and Washington won a great match in five at Irvington on Oct. 1.
1. Bishop O’Dowd 2. Miramonte 3. Campolindo 4. Amador Valley 5. Albany 6. Granada 7. Moreau Catholic 8. Foothill 9. Carondelet 10. San Ramon Valley 11. Northgate 12. Deer Valley 13. Salesian 14. Mission San Jose 15. Washington
Others considered: Irvington, Acalanes, Berean Christian, Liberty, Heritage, California, Castro Valley, St. Patrick-St. Vincent, St. Mary’s, Alameda.
We welcome California to the rankings this week. In recent matches the Grizzlies have beaten Foothill and San Ramon Valley and have earned the right to be here. I debated between Piedmont and San Ramon Valley for that final spot and just thought the Wolves might be struggling a bit, but the EBAL is brutal. Northgate makes a jump to No. 8 this week as they continue to roll in the DVAL, while Mission San Jose and Washington both move up one spot and are representing the MVAL very well.
1. Bishop O’Dowd 2. Miramonte 3. Campolindo 4. Amador Valley 5. Albany 6. Granada 7. Foothill 8. Northgate 9. Carondelet 10. Moreau Catholic 11. Deer Valley 12. Mission San Jose 13. Washington 14. California 15. San Ramon Valley
Others considered: Piedmont, Irvington, Salesian, Berean Christian, Liberty, Heritage, Castro Valley, Acalanes, St. Patrick-St. Vincent, Alameda.
We welcome Piedmont into the rankings this week. The Highlanders have won 15 straight matches and handed Albany its first league loss and its first loss, period, in nearly a month. No other changes really, just Albany dropping two spots to No. 7 and Granada and Foothill each climbing one spot. I kept Mission San Jose one spot above Washington despite the Warriors loss to the Huskies in MVAL play. Mission got them back at the Dougherty Valley Tournament and have beaten them three of four times this year.
1. Bishop O’Dowd 2. Miramonte 3. Campolindo 4. Amador Valley 5. Granada 6. Foothill 7. Albany 8. Northgate 9. Carondelet 10. Moreau Catholic 11. Deer Valley 12. Piedmont 13. Mission San Jose 14. Washington 15. San Ramon Valley
Others considered: California, Irvington, Salesian, Berean Christian, Liberty, Heritage, Castro Valley, Acalanes, St. Patrick-St. Vincent, Berkeley.
A few small shifts. Amador Valley climbs to No. 3 as it continues an impressive unbeaten run through the East Bay Athletic League, and Carondelet’s recent surge has it at No. 7 this week. Berean Christian jumps back into the rankings after a win at Northgate, while two Mission Valley Athletic League teams hold on to the final two spots. Washington had an up and down performance at the Newark Tournament, and will have a chance to prove its ranking tomorrow when the Huskies face Irvington with a share of the league title on the line.
1. Bishop O’Dowd 2. Miramonte 3. Amador Valley 4. Campolindo 5. Granada 6. Foothill 7. Carondelet 8. Albany 9. Moreau Catholic 10. Northgate 11. Deer Valley 12. Piedmont 13. Berean Christian 14. Mission San Jose 15. Washington
Others considered: Irvington, San Ramon Valley, California, Salesian, Heritage, Liberty, Castro Valley, Acalanes, St. Patrick-St. Vincent, Berkeley.
League standings
ACCAL Team League GB Berkeley 9-0 - Alameda 7-1 1.5 El Cerrito 6-3 3 De Anza 3-6 6 Pinole Valley 2-7 7 Hercules 2-7 7 Richmond 0-9 9
BSAL Team League GB Albany 15-1 - St. Patrick-St. Vincent 13-3 2 Piedmont 12-3 2.5 Salesian 12-4 3 St. Mary’s 10-6 5 St. Joseph Notre Dame 7-9 8 Encinal 1-12 12.5 Swett 1-13 13 Kennedy-R 0-12 13 Holy Names 0-12 13
BVAL Team League GB Deer Valley 11-0 - Liberty 8-3 3 Heritage 8-3 3 Freedom 3-8 8 Antioch 2-9 9 Pittsburg 0-11 11
DFAL Team League GB Miramonte 9-0 - Campolindo 7-2 2 Acalanes 5-3 3.5 Las Lomas 5-4 4 Dublin 3-6 6 Dougherty Valley 2-7 7 Alhambra 0-9 9
DVAL Team League GB Northgate 8-1 - Berean Christian 7-1 .5 Concord 6-3 2 Clayton Valley 5-3 2.5 College Park 2-6 5.5 Ygnacio Valley 1-7 6.5 Mt. Diablo 0-8 7.5
EBAL Team League GB Amador Valley 10-0 - Granada 8-2 2 Foothill 7-3 3 Carondelet 7-3 3 California 4-6 6 San Ramon Valley 3-7 7 Monte Vista 1-9 9 Livermore 0-10 10
HAAL Team League GB Bishop O’Dowd 10-0 - Moreau Catholic 8-2 2 Castro Valley 7-2 2.5 San Leandro 6-4 4 Arroyo 3-5 6 Hayward 1-5 7 Tennyson 0-6 8 San Lorenzo 0-6 8 Mt. Eden 0-6 8
MVAL Team League GB Washington 8-2 - Mission San Jose 8-2 - Irvington 8-2 - Logan 6-4 2 Newark Memorial 3-7 5 American 3-8 5.5 Kennedy-F 0-11 8.5
With league’s wrapping with their last two matches or with league playoffs, the North Coast Section playoffs are on the horizon.
The NCS Division III playoffs will be very compelling, with five of the top nine teams in the Bay Area News Group’s East Bay volleyball rankings being D III teams. Four of these five teams, along with a top flight D III team from Sonoma County were at the Northgate Tournament this week as Bishop O’Dowd, Miramonte, Campolindo, Moreau Catholic and Analy all took part. And even though Analy won the tournament, topping Campolindo in the finals, it doesn’t necessarily make the Tigers the favorite. Analy has lost to Campolindo in a non-league match, and Analy has lost to Granada in tournament play. Miramonte has beat Campolindo twice and has beat Granada. Campolindo, however, exacted a little revenge and beat the Matadors in the semifinals at Northgate on Saturday. Got that straight? Then you throw in top-ranked Bishop O’Dowd, who lost to Analy in the semifinals. The Dragons have split with Campolindo this year, haven’t played Miramonte but have some very impressive wins over St. Mary’-Stockton, Sacred Heart Cathedral and St. Francis-Sacramento. “Division III is loaded with talent,” Bishop O’Dowd coach Mike Gee said. “Things are always changing. One week team A will beat team B, and the next it will be the other way around. I’m extremely excited for this year’s NCS. It’s going to make for a lot of great volleyball for everyone.” Bishop O’Dowd ends the weekend at 29-8, and has to feel like it has a claim to the No. 1 seed. But Miramonte, at 22-2, probably feels the same way. “I think the final four teams at the Northgate Tournament will be the top four teams in Division III,” Miramonte coach Shannon Ross said. “It’s going to get very interesting because all four are great volleyball teams and only two can make it to the finals and move on to NorCal.” Campolindo, led by coach Scott Bishop, may also have a claim to the top seed, and he knows that the four teams will end up seeded one through four, but in which order is anybody’s guess at this point. A highly ranked Division III team, Albany, was at the Edison Tournament in Stockton and went 4-0, winning the tournament. The Division I favorite, Amador Valley, won a pair of matches in East Bay Athletic League play last week to stay perfect, winning one of those against Division II hopeful Carondelet. Northgate, another top D II team, went 3-1 at its own tournament.
Rankings
The Northgate Tournament made things a little difficult with the rankings this week, but I decided to leave them as is. Miramonte is 2-1 agaisnt Campolindo, so I didn’t think a shift was in order. The playoffs will sort it all out. Carondelet is playing well, and creeps up to No. 5 as the Cougars have emerged as perhaps the team to beat in D II.
1. Bishop O’Dowd 2. Miramonte 3. Amador Valley 4. Campolindo 5. Carondelet 6. Granada 7. Foothill 8. Albany 9. Moreau Catholic 10. Northgate 11. Deer Valley 12. Mission San Jose 13. Washington 14. Piedmont 15. Berean Christian
Others considered: Irvington, St. Patrick-St. Vincent, Salesian, San Ramon Valley, California, Heritage, Liberty, Castro Valley, St. Mary’s, Berkeley.
For the first time, the North Coast Section volleyball playoffs have gone to a closed-door committee instead of a seeding meeting, and the brackets have been announced. Let’s take a look at each division, which have been opened up to 16 teams this year.
Division I
The top seed in this division was merely academic as Amador Valley dominated Division I in the East Bay all year long. The Dons are the clearcut favorite. After Amador Valley, it gets interesting and very competitive with East Bay Athletic League runner-up Granada earning the No. 2 seed, and deservedly so. The Matadors went 21-6 and were the second best team behind the Dons all year in D I.
Wednesday, Nov. 11 First Round No. 4 Mission San Jose v. No. 13 Berkeley No. 5 Deer Valley v. No. 12 San Leandro No. 6 Washington v. No. 11 Logan No. 7 Irvington v. No. 10 Liberty No. 8 Heritage v. No. 9 Castro Valley
Saturday, Nov. 14 Quarterfinals No. 1 Amador Valley v. TBA No. 2 Granada v. TBA No. 3 Foothill v. TBA
Division II
Carondelet is the East Bay’s highest seeded team in Division II, earning the No. 3 seed, but the tough schedule and playing in the East Bay Athletic League wasn’t enough to earn one of the top two seeds. The honors went to No. 1 Petaluma and No. 2 Redwood. Northgate earned the No. 4 seed and will join Carondelet with a first-round bye. Another Diablo Valley Athletic League team, Concord, earns the No. 8 seed while Las Lomas is No. 10 and Alameda is No. 11.
Wednesday, Nov. 11 First Round No. 5 Maria Carrillo v. No. 12 Eureka No. 6 Windsor v. No. 11 Alameda No. 7 Rancho Cotate v. No. 10 Las Lomas No. 8 Concord v. No. 9 Ukiah
Saturday, Nov. 14 Quarterfinals No. 1 Petaluma v. TBA No. 2 Redwood v. TBA No. 3 Carondelet v. TBA No. 4 Northgate v. TBA
Division III
In the most compelling and competitive division in the NCS, D III features four of the top teams in Northern California. The four of them earned the top seeds, with last year’s No. 1 seed and runner-up, Miramonte, earning the top seed again. “I’m extremely excited and I’m so, so proud of my girls,” Miramonte coach Shannon Ross said. “The NCS seeds us No. 1 so they obviously see something in us that they like, and I hope this is the motivation to go all the way. I hope we can finish this year and I really think this team can do it.” Miramonte went 25-2, but Bishop O’Dowd might be considered the favorite by many after going 32-8 and playing a very, very strong schedule. “I’m really focused on the state playoffs and I put this schedule together in preparation for state,” Bishop O’Dowd coach Mike Gee said. “I know looking ahead is dangerous because the NCS is going to be very tough.” But the Dragons earned the No. 3 seed after losing to Analy in the semi-finals of the Northgate Tournament. Analy earns the No. 2 seed, it seems by virtue of this win. This would setup a potential semi-final matchup, but Bishop O’Dowd will have to travel to Sebastopol. “If we’re going to be a top team, we need to be capable of winning at home or away,” Gee said. “Playing on the road or at home doesn’t matter. We’ve traveled a lot this year and we’re gonna be battle tested.” Campolindo earns the No. 4 seed, setting up a potential fourth matchup between the Cougars and rival Miramonte. The Matadors went 2-1 against Campolindo, winning both league matches and losing at the Northgate Tournament. Albany and Moreau Catholic, both top ten teams in the Bay Area News Group’s Volleyball Rankings, were seeded No. 6 and No. 7, respectively. Acalanes, a tough team when things are clicking, earns the No. 10 seed with El Cerrito earning the No. 13 seed.
Wednesday, Nov. 11 First Round No. 4 Campolindo v. No. 13 El Cerrito No. 5 Drake v. No. 12 Del Norte No. 6 Albany v. No. 11 El Molino No. 7 Moreau Catholic v. No. 10 Acalanes No. 8 Sonoma Valley v. No. 9 Terra Linda
Saturday, Nov. 14 Quarterfinals No. 1 Miramonte v. TBA No. 2 Analy v. TBA No. 3 Bishop O’Dowd v. TBA
Division IV
The Salesian Pride earn the No. 2 seed after their march to the Bay Shore Athletic League Tournament title. The team they beat, St. Patrick-St. Vincent, earns the No. 3 seed. The BSAL is well-represented with Piedmont getting the No. 4 seed and St. Mary’s getting the No. 7 seed. Berean Christian, after winning a one-game playoff against Northgate to win the Diablo Valley Athletic League’s automatic bid (they shared the league title) earns the No. 5 seed. The Eagles split with St. Patrick-St. Vincent this year and lost to Salesian twice.
Wednesday, Nov. 11 First Round No. 3 St. Patrick-St. Vincent v. McKinleyville No. 4 Piedmont v. No. 13 Clear Lake No. 5 Berean Christian v. No. 12 Ursuline No. 6 St. Helena v. No. 11 Kelseyville No. 7 St. Mary’s v. No. 10 Healdsburg No. 8 Lick-Wilmerding v. No. 9 Willits
Saturday, Nov. 14
Quarterfinals No. 1 Marin Catholic v. TBA No. 2 Salesian v. TBA
Division V
The Bay Counties League East is well represented in Division V with Valley Christian earning the highest seed at No. 4, and a first-round bye. Redwood Christian, Head-Royce, College Prep and Bentley will all get home matches in the first round on Wednesday.
Wednesday, Nov. 11 First Round No. 5 Redwood Christian v. No. 12 Roseland University Prep-Santa Rosa No. 6 Head-Royce v. No. 11 Hoopa Valley No. 7 College Prep v. No. 10 Fremont Christian No. 8 Bentley v. No. 9 Bay School-San Francisco
Saturday, Nov. 14 Quarterfinals No. 1 Branson v. TBA No. 2 Marin Academy v. TBA No. 3 University-San Francisco v. TBA No. 4 Valley Christian v. TBA
Division VI
A pair of Bay Counties League East teams make the Division VI playoffs, with Contra Costa Christian earning a bye and the No. 5 seed, meanwhile Chinese Christian earns the No. 11 seed and faces Southern Trinity-Bridgeville.
Wednesday, Nov. 11 First Round No. 6 Southern Trinity v. No. 11 Chinese Christian No. 7 Mendocino v. No. 10 Tomales No. 8 Pescadero v. No. 9 Rio Lindo Adventist
Saturday, Nov. 14 Quarterfinals No. 1 Rincon Valley Christian v. TBA No. 2 Anderson Valley v. TBA No. 3 Pacific Union Prep v. TBA No. 4 San Francisco Waldorf v. No. 5 Contra Costa Christian
Rankings
Here are the rankings entering the playoffs.
1. Bishop O’Dowd 2. Miramonte 3. Amador Valley 4. Campolindo 5. Carondelet 6. Granada 7. Foothill 8. Deer Valley 9. Albany 10. Moreau Catholic 11. Mission San Jose 12. Salesian 13. Berean Christian 14. Northgate 15. Irvington
Others considered: Castro Valley, Washington, St. Patrick-St. Vincent, Piedmont, Heritage, Liberty, San Ramon Valley, St. Mary’s, Berkeley, Acalanes.
I would like to extend congratulations to Lou Panzella, coach of Deer Valley HS girl's varsity volleyball , for receiving NCS Coach of the Year honors. Well deserved.
The only real upset thus far tonight is #10 Liberty knocking off #7 Irvington 25-16, 25-18, 20-25, 25-10 in D1 action. No other #10 seeds or higher have won in any divisions with just a couple of matches left to report.
In looking back at my predictions from August in one of the first posts on this thread, I predicted the following:
"I'll take a stab at the EBAL for this season. If pushed, I would have to go with AV and Granada to battle for the first two spots, Foothill and Carondelet volley for 3-4, Cal & SRV scrap for 6-7, while MV and Livermore fight it out for the last two spots."
While I typo'd and put Cal-SRV as 6-7 rather than 5-6, it was about as close as could be called. Final EBAL Standings:
Campo was destroyed by Drake 25-14, 25-16, 25-18, so Drake will be at Miramonte on Weds. for a D3 semifinal matchup, while BOD travels to Analy.
In D2 #5 Maria Carillo knocked off #4 seed Northgate 25-19, 25-22, 25-19 and will face Petaluma, while Carondelet travels to Redwood.
D1 saw Amador take apart Heritage 25-20, 25-11, 25-14, and will host Deer Valley, winners of a huge comeback victory at Mission San Jose tonight 20-25, 25-17, 27-25, 25-22. After splitting the 1st 2 games, DV was down 9-1 and 20-12 in game 3, but came storming back to win 27-25 and took the momentum from the home squad. Great effort by DV. On the other side of the D1 bracket, #2 Granada squeezed by #10 Liberty in 3 games 25-21, 25-22, 25-21, and host #3 Foothill won a marathon match against #6 Washington 15-25, 25-17, 25-23, 16-25, 16-14.
Yes 001 it was a good night for volleyball. I watched Foothill/Washington and I'm not sure how FHS pulled that one out. I don't know why WHS didn't win their league. This team has to run hot and cold or something because tonight they started out looking like one of the top teams in the bay area. Their hitters were killing it and it looked like they were going to make short work of FHS but FHS just did what they do this year and make the points they needed to make. The match wasn't decided until FHS was able to get the last one down. Very good match.
I don't know if WHS will be returning most of their players but if they do, watch out, they will be a team to be reckoned with. Regardless, they have put together a nice program there.
Andy, Deer Valley has their work cut out for them against #1 seed Amador Valley on Wednesday. Amador will be a heavy favorite. However, if they can get by AV, they'll face the winner of the #2 Granada-#3 Foothill match.
Mr. T, I almost went to the Foothill-Washington match tonight, but decided to see DV-MSJ instead. It was a great match, but it sounds like the match in Pleasanton was even more exciting. I have seen Washington play, and they do have a good team, even if they hadn't got that 6'3" transfer (Yokoyama) this season from Japan. But MSJ is also a good team and their fantastic outside hitter Kayla Ma #9 is just a beast. MSJ has won the MVAL two years in a row and had their entire starting lineup back this year, so they had a lot of experience that Washington didn't. But Yokoyama is just a junior and Ma graduates, so Washington may be the team to beat in that league in 2010.
MSJ clearly had the best player on the court tonight in Ma, but DV won because they have a better overall team, better coaching in Lou and the team has heart. It would have been easy for them to fold when down 9-1 or 20-12, but they perservered and battled it out. DV travelled well all the way out to Fremont, with just as many or more fans in the stands as MSJ to root on their girls.
I don't know where this serve came from. The past week she's just been dialed in. All I can say is that when her serve gets hot, it's extremely difficult to pass. We all have trouble with it when we play doubles or triples in practice.
And yes, Campo definitely earned game one. It's just more fun to write "steal."
Tell Sarah we (especially sandra) will be waiting for her next time. However, congrats to her as her 7-0 run changed game two's momentum and even perhaps your teams outcome for the day.
Northgate Tourney is around the corner...cya there.
Thursday has Amador and Granada hooking up in a battle royale for EBAL supremacy as each come in undefeated in league play at 5-0. Surprising Cal now has wins over 3 top 10 teams (Moreau, Foothill & SRV), is 3-2 and plays 0-5 Livermore, 1-4 MV squeeked by spirited Livermore in 5 last night after surrendering the first 2 games to earn their first league win, and will play 2-3 Carondelet, and 1-4 SRV faces 3-2 Foothill which should also be a great match.
Amador played a great match defeating Granada in 3. 25-13 25-17 29-27. Amador did not make very many mistakes and answered on every point. Game 1 Rachel Kinnardserved 10 straight points in game 1 to go up 11-1. It was tough for Granada to recover after that. They had trouble passing and putting balls away. Game 2 was a better fight from Granada but not enough. Game 3 was a battle the entire time. Granada had game point at 24-22 and ending up loosing 29-27. Great play by Amador, they were the better team last night.
Watched Amador play against Carondolet on Tuesday and Nikki Baker was everywhere. She may not be the biggest player but she plays at a different speed. Best player in the EBAL in my opinion. What sets her apart is her great defence and hitting while in the back row.
I agree. Nikki has always been a solid player, but she is really getting high up in the air this year and has a burst of quickness. She is just literally on another level than the rest of the league. Fun to watch. Amador has a good one there. She gets my vote for first half MVP.
I have the hardest time distinguishing between Nikki Baker and Katie Osborne of Granada. They both can get up, hit and cover a lot of court. Katie needs to get props too. MVP voting should be tight this year.
Good point Mr. T. Katie is right up there with Nikki. Neither looks very imposing until you see them in action, and then they are both very impressive. While watching Amador play, I hear a lot of spectators gasping at how athletic Nikki is, but I don't get the same vibe from the crowd about Katie, for whatever reason. They are both amazing. I'll give the first half edge to Nikki if only because Amador won the head to head battle and will likely be the first place team in league. Unless of course Katie leads the Mats to an 8-0 run to finish the season.
Is Kory Lamet playing this year for Carondelet? I thought she was supposed to be a senior this year?
Kory Lamet is an outstanding soccer player and had to make a choice this season, she is only a junior this year so she may be back next season, who knows.
Hands down, Nikki MVP 1st half....Not even close. No comment on Dewitt from Foothill? Absolute cannon!!! And no mention of Grace for MVP? It's not all about # of kills.
Let's not forget about Devin Shaver from Granada. She is a great all around player and I bet she will do some serious damage 2nd half of league. Nikki is awesome too. Two different type of players...
Great point... There are many very good players in the EBAL. From what I have seen of this player...very poised and crafty. She can hit, set and block. I see her being a very good college player.
I agree with everything that has been said about these players. One thing I will say is that I really haven't seen the one player this year with that "wow" factor and ability to single -handedly carry their team to the top but there are quite a few sturdy no frills types who get the job done and are excellent teammates on very good teams. Making this years version of girl's volleyball in Norcal quite interesting and somewhat unpredictable.
Agreed that there are many good players in EBAL. Meghan Cooney from Carondelet should also be included in the MVP discussion. An impact player for her team both offensively and defensively....strong hitter that can block and pass with efficiency. Smart player with excellent court sense that will help her be successful at the college level.
As noted above, there seems no one stand-out in the east bay at this point.
as such, those who are considered candidates should have their stats posted by their coaches to give the public some idea how they compare to others.
Sometimes the MVP(s) are the player(s) you least expect...especially when you have a senior and junior class as deep in talent as is the case at present.
Case in point, the top five teams in the east bay have rosters sooo deep with talent that the list of MVP candidates could get quite long. Comparing stats would go a long way towards making a short list of true MVP candidates.
What vball novice has noted is so very true and couldn't agree more. Volleyball is a team sport and one or two players should not have to "carry" the team. Sometimes the MVP(s) are the player(s) you least expect...the ones that play offense and defense consistently game to game, the ones that keep the ball in play and make few mistakes, and most importantly, the ones that empower their teammates to play at their highest level.
Alot of very exciting volleyball happening in the east bay right now.
When I posted my opinion about Nikki Baker I really was commenting how she was rarely mentioned on this board. The other player I was impressed with is DeWitt from Foothill. I saw Granada play last year and thought they had several players who played well without one really standing out. I need to get in the gym and watch Granada play a match. MVP is not always the best player but the leader of the best team, although often they are the one and the same.Still Baker has been the best all around player I have seen.
A given year's MVP choice, is not necessarily the leader of the best team. (Although it often happens that way) A team with the best record often achieves that record with good play from entire team. That good play then enables a stand out player to excel (Good passing begets, a good set, allowing a well practiced, in system, play). Doesn't mean that same player would lead another team to same record, or enjoy same success on a team with less talent at other 5 positions.
IMHO an MVP choice could also be a player whose contribution elevated their team to a level they never would have achieved w/o her. Last year Cal was not necessarily the best team in league, yet Kordic's play earned her the MVP. If Cal had one or two stronger players at certain positions, then it may have been leader of best team winning MVP.
Last year the MVP went to Sydney Kordic from Cal, who finished 4th in league. It's not always a kid from the best team, but a girl who is the best player. In my opinion we have 3 standout players in our league Nikki Baker, Caitlin Dewitt and Devin Shaver.
Last year there was no one dominant player on a dominant team. SRV was the best team, but they had a handful of really good players who played well together. Granada also had a handful of really good players who played well together. Cal beat (and lost to) both SRV and Granada last year, and largely due to Sydney's play. Amador may not lose in league this year. If I remember correctly, SRV lost two matches during the season last year, both in the first half, and Granada lost 3 or 4? The league was well balanced.
MVP is always a tough award to quantify. Whether it is the best player on the best team, the player that most helps her team, or the most dominant player. I would take any of the girls mentioned: Grace Vickers, Nikki Baker, Caitlin Dewitt, Katie Osborne, Meghan Cooney, or Devin Shaver on my team any day. Girls like them make the game fun to watch.
Tonight CHS is playing at Granada so I will get a chance to see Granada play. I remember K. Osbourne from last year and she seems to make great reads on defense she makes it look easy at times. Also Devin Shaver played out side last year and I heard she is setting this year. Go Cougers!!!!
Will CHS be at full strength tonite? I heard they have a a couple key players out the last few weeks. Saw them play Cal, but still had some girls out....however they seem to be playing better and more consistant as the season has progressed. I look forward to a well played match and and wouldn't count them out.
CHS (Carondelet not Cal High) has been missing a few key players for several weeks now (their libero and an OH). The OH saw her first, limited action last night against Granada and hopes to be getting back in the groove for the remainder of the season. Not sure about the status of their libero.
That was a great win for Carondelet last night vs. Granada. If they can get some revenge on Foothill the 2nd time through league, they should be able to take 3rd place. Carondelet, Foothill, and Cal all split with each other in round 1 and they were in a 3-way tie for 3-5 at 4-3 heading into the 2nd round. They are much improved overlast year's team, even without Kory Lamet, and should be a factor at NCS. I wouldn't put too much emphasis on players missing with injuries, as all teams are going through this during the season.
AV is still the team to beat with 5 league matches remaining, and though they will be tested by both Carondelet and Granada I don't see them losing. Still have Nikki Baker penciled in for my EBAL MVP, but Cooney is closing in.
Meghan Cooney has really stepped it up with her defense and it has made an impact on her team. She had a great match last night and was the key to their win. She made alot of defensive plays and had some big kills. I thought her defense was her weak spot but she is playing with great court awareness right now. She is one of the contenders for MVP with her hard play and all around skills.
I've seen most of these candidates play in club for the last two years and agree that they all stand out from this years' high school crowd. Nicole Baker is probably the most spectacular of them all with her aggressive serving, back row hitting, and her amazing variety of shots from her outside hitting position. I think Osbourne is the best athlete of this group with her strength and explosiveness and Vickers is hands down the best middle in the east bay (sorry Andrea). I think Devin Shaver will probably be the best college player of this crop of seniors though. She does everything well and has the height that will make her competitive in a strong program.
My prediction for next years' CC Times player of the year for girls' volleyball will be Lindsey Parrott of O'Dowd... IF they run a 6-2 next year she'll be able to show off all her skills; hitting, blocking, and setting.
Don't count out a number of the smaller, game-changers in the east bay. Campo and BOD (as well a few other teams) have the best libero's in the area who's performance can impact their teams chemistry. Sure, they don't hit, set or block, but without them the team would in most cases be unable to use their killer offense.
Regarding next years player of the year, I would agree, but add that BOD also has two other outstanding candidates in juniors Lynch (OH) and Pehanick(sp?) (MH). If anyone out there thinks BOD's loss of seven seniors (5 starting this year) next year will slow them down...I wouldn't hold your breath.
Personally I hope Campo can get back to DIV 2 next year...this DIV 3 thing is brutal.
Thursday, 10/22/2009 - 11:36 p.m. PDT — Mira v Campo
vbfan
Joined: Sep 2009
Current Posts: 5
Well vbnovice, I've read the posts all season. In the first meeting the post read that Campo was "overconfident". The post recently said if Campo brought their "A" game it was a match they should win. Care to try to find another reason why Miramonte won again? The Northgate tournament and the NCS playoffs will be a real battle, but vball novice please give Miramonte their due just once ;-) Enjoy the games all.
vbfan, I thought, as many did, Mira would be slowed by the loss of last years seniors and head coach. Hence, why I felt Campo was the better team. I/We have been proven wrong.
In watching the game last evening, it is clear Julianna is at least half Mira's offense and defense. Campo just has no answer for her. I was also further impressed with mira's libero, don't know her name...but she came to play last night.
Oh, and what was up with Mira's second setter (#1), she has a rather bad attitude...kicking the ball in anger and yelling in anger at her own team mates. (down girl!!) She also tried to argue a back-court attack call, when she (as a back row setter) attacked an over-pass. (Hello?)
If Campo is to compete for the NCS title, they have some work cut-out for themselves.
Last year BOD was able to control and limit Julianna's impact during the NCS finals. Campo better find that same key, or their NCS trip will be short.
I got to the match late, mid 1st game. What a rocking gym!! Great match. Less errors were the key. Props to Miramonte. Well coached. I would advise Miramonte coach to tone down her players. Attitude is good when channeled right. I saw and heard alot of foul langauge coming from several key Matador players. This could hurt them in furture tight games. They are too good of a team to be penalized by poor behavior. It will be a fun NCS to watch!!
Isn't interesting how teams tend to reflect their coach? It's true in virtually all sports, not just volleyball. Let's hope that cooler heads prevail and -- you're right -- good attitude is channeled the right way as pure, respectful competition on and off the court.
It really was a good match between two good teams. If they do meet again I am sure it will be just as good and could go either way. As to coaching "styles" it was definately a contrast and anyone who understands sports knows that is the case many times. There is no particular style that is the gold standard for how to coach. As a coach you also have to know your team and what will and will not work with that particular group. I would certainly not ask the Miramonte coach to curb her enthusiasm (which obviously works for her team) just as I would not ask the Campo coach to outwardly cheer enthusiasticaly for his team (and his style has worked for him over the years). Knowing many of the parents and others who know the Mira coach they appreciate her energy and passion as does her team. She certainly did not invent this style. Knowing many on the Campo side I know they appreciate the way their coach coaches as well. He did not invent this style. I also know that the Mira coach is aware of the language "issue" last night and is not condoning it at all. D3 NCS is probably the most competitve of all the divisions as far as top tier teams. It's going to be a battle that will be fun to watch.
vbfan - you are right on with your comments. The thing is that the Miramonte coach is doing a hell of a job in her first year. Holding a league winning team together after losing their coach and having them contine to succeed is a tough job. It's pretty obvious that this coach is the real deal. A volleyball team is so much the sum of all it's parts and Miramonte's coach seems to be quite proficient at creating an environment where all those parts can succeed.
Great to hear from the Matador "Homers". All good vibes to the new coach. Beware...the refs know of the "issues" and will be watching. Like I said, the Matadors are too good to be dinged by over zealous words. I love the coach's style. Let it roll!!
There is a big difference between competitive enthusiasm/zeal and unsportsman-like-conduct. It would be my position that a number of Mira's players clearly stepped WAY over that line on Thursday...and from what I hear off-line...this is a regular occurance. There is no place in High School Sports for this, and the ref's should have zero tolerance for it.
As to Mira's coach...what little experience I have... I say be fore warned....unsportsman-like-players can be especially poisonous to their own team....Terrel Owens (TO) is a perfect example.
Let's hope we see none of this at the Northgate Tourney.
As I said Novice, she is aware of the issues, does not condone them and has addressed them. It is not a regular occurance however. No one is condoning the issue at hand, but Thursday night was an emotional night. It's being dealt with. I will tell you though that Mira is definately a "team" so this is not ripping the team asunder. By the way, I am not lessing your point, but have you ever stood on the sidelines of a high school football game? You might want to bring your earplugs.
McHugh, thanks for the post. "Homers" ?? This whole blog is made up of "Homers" lol ;-)
First, congrats to the Mira coach...hellofa job to keep the program competitive.
Not knowing her, it would be sad to see her caught up in an ugly situation of unsportsman like conduct and player ejections that could shorten her career as Mira's coach.
Miramonte as a whole has been ROCKED recently by some very questionable acts by members of the student body and facility that have made local headlines. I would hope their Vball team would not be a reflection of those headlines.
As a parent and fan of Vball, I enjoy the sport because it is NOT a contact sport, nor does it have the BS associated with contact sports. Further, we as parents should demand the highest possible standard of conduct at all levels and types of sports. I for one, do not send my kids to school or club sports to be taught how to desrespect competitors or team mates. I suspect I'm not alone in that position.
vballnovice ... I'm speechless. The mean spiritedness of your last post boggles me. To reference or to even remotely tie the tragic incidents of the past year at Miramonte to a discussion about volleyball is just unimagineable. To also suggest that the kids are being "taught" to disrespect is also way beyond truthfulness or reality. I'm stunned ..... and off this blog.
My apogolizes...my comments were meant to be frank, but in no way mean spirited!
Recent events clearly are a very sensitive subject for you.
I was simply hoping for the sake of Mira's coach, players, parents and fans that the team would reflect the highest standard of sportsmanship and champion Miramonte High School with an image far different then what has made recent headlines.
Honestly, I don't feel it's the coach's sole responsibility...we as fans and parents share some responsibilty in asking (or maybe demanding) that ref's enforce sportsmanship rules promptly and that our kids are leaders on and off court.
Foothill and Carondelet battled for 5 games last night with the Cougars eventually coming out on top. Kind of a strange match as both teams on either side of the net either played well or kind of fell apart during any one game. CHS won a squeaker in the first game, coming from behind (25-22); Foothill blew out CHS in the second game (14-25); CHS won another close one in the third (30-28); Foothill then thumped CHS in the fourth (18-25); and CHS finally blew out Foothill in the fifth and deciding game (15-5).
Caitlin Dewitt had another outstanding game for Foothill. She seemed a little frustrated in the final game and then got hurt, but it didn't seem too serious as she continued to play. Let's hope it's nothing serious as she is truly an amazing player.
Yes if consistent I def see either one of those two teams going far in playoff picture. It looks like Carondelet is peaking at the right time. I believe they play amador tonite, will be a big test but win or lose they are sitting pretty. Good luck to all tonite!
I too got a chance to watch the Carondelet/ Foothill teams play. While both Cooney and Dewitt are great players, I did not feel that either one of them pulled off the win for their teams. Dewitt is the clear powerhouse for her team and I see her in the MVP slot next year as her hitting is spectacular and her passing is great to. I think with time she will hold up better to the pressure and pull off those wins at the end. Foothill is definitely a team to watch for next year. Carondelet is also pretty packed with talent for next year. While Cooney played very well in the match, Carondelet pulled off that win with great hitting from the middles, right sides, outsides and consistent setting... their defense looks better all around, but could use some work. I still have to give my vote to Baker for MVP. When things are tough, she pulls through with some of the best digs I have ever seen, along with great hitting. She is the complete package of what an MVP is... she pulls her team up when they are down by combining great skills with heart.... at least thats what it looks like from the outside. Shaver of Granada gets my second vote as she plays consistently and looks calm throughout the whole process. I put her in second because I believe MVP is the player that elevates their team to great wins and I do not feel like Granada is pulling through as well as they could right now.. so that could change if they beat Amador etc.
Amador is sitting pretty right now at 11-0 in the always tough EBAL. However, their toughest stretch kicks in tonight as they close the season against hard charging 8-3 Carondelet tonight (winners of 6 in a row), then end with 9-2 Granada and 7-4 Foothill next week. Playing teams of that caliber late in the season should get them ready for the NCS playoffs.
Although I felt AV would win league, I didn't think they could pull off going unbeaten. I still don't think it will happen but who's to say? Good luck to them.
Well, Campo finally found the key to beating Miramonte, only to then lose in two to Analy in the Championship match. Analy beat BOD in three in the semi's to get to the final match. Analy's victory will make for an interesting NCS Seatings meeting.
Saw AV crush Granada last night. Thought I saw six players on AV that were taller than anyone on the Granada squad, and yet... Granada almost won the first two games. Looked like AV let down in game 2 and Granada ran out of gas after that. Granada didn't really have anyone that could put the ball away or block.
Having all that senior talent is really paying off for AV and Granada. Maybe they'll meet again.
AV bested Granada and is down to just 1 match left against Foothill for the undefeated EBAL regular season. Carondelet keeps rolling and took out MV in 3 games as expected, while Foothill did the same with SRV. The real shocker came in Livermore where the Lady Cowboys dug deep and came up with their first win of the season, stunning Cal 3-1. Irvington and MSJ will battle for the MVAL playoff title.
From today's Times, some actual volleyball coverage in print:
Girls volleyball
Amador Valley d. Granada: Behind 59 assists from setter Kelsey Williams and 28 kills from hitter Nikki Baker, the Dons clinched the EBAL title with a 31-29, 21-25, 25-16, 25-14 win over the visiting Matadors.
Granada (20-6, 10-3 EBAL) made it tough for the first two games, but Amador Valley (25-7, 13-0) kept its perfect league record intact by dominating late.
"I felt like we started a little shaky because we were very pumped up for this match and maybe a little nervous," Baker said. "We knew Granada was going to be a tough challenge, but we settled in and finished strong."
Granada used 21 assists, 13 digs, six blocks and five kills from Devin Shaver to give the Dons their toughest league test of the season.
"They definitely made some errors that helped us out in games one and two," Granada coach Toni Templeman said. "That normally doesn't happen with them. They played better in the last two games and for us, our passing broke down."
— Matt Smith, correspondent
MVAL tournament: Katie Lopez had another outstanding match as No. 3 seed Irvington rallied late in the first two games en route to a 26-24, 25-22, 25-17 win over No. 2 Washington in the semifinals of the Mission Valley Athletic League playoffs at Mission San Jose.
Trailing 24-22 in Game 1, the Vikings (17-8) earned the last four points to prevail 26-24. Irvington trailed in the second game 21-18 before scoring seven of the last eight points to take a 2-0 advantage.
Lopez finished with a game-high 20 kills and added five digs, three blocks and two aces.
Konami Yokoyama had 10 kills, five blocks and three aces to lead the Huskies.
In the other semifinal, Alison Day had six kills and 14 digs as top-seeded Mission San Jose rolled to a 25-14, 25-18, 25-14 win over No. 4 James Logan.
Mission San Jose will host Irvington in the finals Thursday at 7 p.m. The teams split their season series, but the Vikings need to beat the Warriors twice to win the MVAL title and the automatic berth to the NCS playoffs.
Keila Mah added six more kills to go along with nine digs and two blocks for the Warriors.
Mimi Lu finished with a team-high five kills, while Camille De Leon added five digs and two aces for the Colts.
I'm happy to see everyone focused on what's to come. A quiet message board tells me that everyone is concentrating on what's important. A big thanks to Matt Smith, CC Times corespondent, who has been covering all the action and compiling everyone's recorded for NCS. He's been doing a fantastic job, and I've enjoyed following his weekly updates. Best of luck to everyone this post season.
- Mike Gee (O'Dowd)
P.S. Club volleyball is important, but don't lose sight of what's happening now. It's the PLAYOFFS. Best of luck to everyone trying out for club ball, it will make you a better player. Look out for each other and remember that you don't just yell "ball on," you run over and shag the ball. Be safe, and let the tight ball go... meaning DON'T GET HURT!!!
Good advice coachmikegee, the best part of the season is upon us...so please parents and coaches, do what you can to make sure players don't get hurt at a club try-out this weekend!
Also, I suggest all coaches make sure they know what time and where to be for NCS play-off meetings...please, no repeats of last year.
No coaches at the NCS seeding meeting. From the NCS championship bulletin "At-Large & Seeding Meeting – COACHES DO NOT ATTEND. The selection and seeding meeting will be conducted as a
closed meeting. NCS member schools have authorized the use of one committee comprised of representatives from each
NCS Conference (NCS consists of six conferences – Humboldt Del Norte, Coastal Mountain, Marin-Sonoma-Mendocino, Bay
Shore, Tri-Valley and Bay Area Conferences). Each committee will be responsible for the selection of the at-large teams and
Redwood trounced a strong Carondelet team 25-14, 25-17, 25-16
Petaluma topped Maria Carillo 18-25, 25-15, 34-32, 25-19
D3 Final - #5 Drake @ #3 Bishop O'Dowd
Drake silenced the top ranked Mats 25-22, 25-22, 25-18
BOD spanked #2 Analy 25-16, 25-18, 25-10
D3 is the only division where #2 isn't facing #1 in the finals, as Drake came out swinging tonight and put the hurt on Miramonte just as they had done to Campo on Saturday night. Drake has some great athletes who play well together as a team. They certainly do not look like a #5 seed.
D4 Final #2 Salesian @ #1 Marin Catholic
Salesian got by St. Helena 34-32, 25-17, 14-25, 25-8
Marin Catholic beat a game Berean squad 25-21, 25-22, 25-20
D5 Final #2 Marin Academy @ #1 Branson
Marin Academy edged SF University 25-20, 23-25, 29-31, 25-11, 15-7
Branson over Valley Christian 25-19, 25-13, 25-22
D6 Final #2 Anderson Valley @ #1 Rincon Valley Christian
Rincon squeezed by Contra Costa Christian 21-25, 25-14, 25-15, 25-21
AV took Pacific Union Prep 25-13, 19-25, 25-19, 25-13
Well, the season is fast coming to a close...and who would of thought both Campo and/or Mira would not make the NCS finals?
Where did this Drake team come from...one well coached team of solid players who work together like a well oiled machine.
I will be at O'dowd Sat to see if BOD can stop them.
Based on what I heard and read on "BOD twitter" about the Analy/BOD game, it took only an hour for BOD to finish off Analy, and Analy was never in any of the games. BOD also played a few second stringers in Game two which may account for the 18 points. Game Three was 10-1 before Analy knew what hit'em.
I will put my money on BOD...but no matter what, it should be one hell of a game.
Drake is very good. The defeated Granada in one of the Tournaments this season and can 'hit'. They don't have a large # of players but their frontline trio can put dents in the floor and block very well. We were impressed with their athleticism. We've seen athletes in the EBAL and Club Ball and they (Drake) made an impression on us. BOD better not take them lightly.
001, I saw the heading "Drake," and got excited thinking it was the former poster from years back, the slef-acclaimed sports guru himself, coming back on the forums to spread his wisdom and knowledge.
The Pehanick twins better be ready for Drake! (Jordan & Jordan, listed twice in the paper as 2nd team all-HAAL)
Ahh, I remember Drake. He had some interesting opinions and you (BJ) and he had some interesting exchanges.
Anyway there's been a lot of good volleyball playing going on in the north bay. South bay too. As a matter of fact, all of Norcal is really stepping it up as far as the number of really good teams out there that don't get the pub.
Allison Leong (Piedmont) Sr., Danielle Brown (Pie) Jr., Dana Balding (St. Mary's) Sr., Emma Jackson (Albany) Sr., Hillary Domecus (St. Patrick-St. Vincent) Sr.
Second Team
Sita Wong (Alb) Jr., Kyra Holt (Alb) Fr., Aine Stuart (Sal) Sr., Phoebe Grunt (St. Joseph Notre Dame) Fr., Anna Buttlaire (Pie) Jr., Kateri Grey (SPSV) Sr.
Honorable Mention
Brianna Habu (Alb) Sr., Talei Tagivakatini (Alb) Sr., McKenzie Giblin (Alb) So., Kimberly Grant (SM) Jr., Melinda Baubutz (SM) Jr., Gisela White (SM) Jr., Geena Series (SJND) Sr., Casandra Rodriguez (SJND) So., Ella Gauna (John Swett) Sr., Mackenzie Larson (JS) Sr., Paige Reed (SPSV) Fr.
cctimes: 11/16/09
All-DFAL
MVP
Juliana Stivanicevic (Miramonte) Sr.
First Team
Morgan Borch (Las Lomas) Sr., Maddie Baldwin (LL) Jr., Sandra Neason (Campolindo) Sr., Alex Shurtz (Cam) Sr., Mary Diamantidis (Mir) Sr., Haley Sayres (Mir) Sr., Chereese Thomas (Dublin) Sr., Akemi Inouye (Acalanes) Sr., Caroline Appert (Aca) Sr.
Second Team
Rachel Stewart (LL) Sr., Rachel Eberhard (Cam) Sr., Chandler Moore (Cam) Jr., Anisa Smith (Cam) Jr., Lissa Gilbert (Mir) Sr., Sarah Vaccaro (Mir) So., Cat Kruschke (Dub) So., Alayna Moody (Alhambra) Sr., Jalene Jiz de Ortega (Dougherty Valley) Fr., Natalie Chan (Aca) Jr., Tyanna Roy (Aca) So.
Honorable Mention
Michelle Ent (Mir) Sr., Sophie Weigarten (LL) Jr., Marika Carrel (Aca) Sr., Mia Fair (Cam) Sr., Mariah Suitos (Alh) Jr., Jaina Jiz de Ortega (DV) So., Jasmine Davidson (Dub) Sr.
Amanda Wallach (DV), Kara Stark (DV), Marisse du-Long (Liberty), Brittany David (L), Chantal Lasher (L), Michelle Morente (F), Taylor Vetterli (F), Jessica Ulloa (Antioch), Brignoe Barham (A), Maddi Hancock (H).
Just home from BOD/Drake match. Great match. BOD won in 4.
Drake was down 2 games to 0, comes back to take game 3, and almost takes game 4 to push it to game 5, before O'dowd goes on 9-2 run to win game 4 at 26-24.
Drake brought some hitters with heat that caused BOD some trouble, however, BOD has just too many weapons and options for their setters...not to mention one of their setters tonight was digging bullets and dumping for kills at will.
I hear BOD will host first round of State matches tues at 7pm.
Anybody know who they play or where to find the brackets online??
As NCS champs, Amador (D1), BOD (D3) and Salesian (D4) will each get to host the first round of NorCal against a runner up from another section. The brackets should be posted tomorrow at
cifstate dot org
Then you go to the Sports button at the top, select State Championship Sports and then Volleyball. The matches are Tuesday, Saturday and then the NorCal finals on the following Tuesday at the home of the higher seeded teams. The State Championships will be held Saturday, December 5th in Irvine. Good luck to the local teams!
This league's choices make me scratch my head. Didn't CV and San Leandro finish lower in their league standings this year? An O'Dowd player misses most of the season and still makes first team? Who comes up with this list? Coach Gee, are you there?
Posted on Friday, 8/14/2009 - 5:16 p.m. PDT — by newbe
Joined: Aug 2009
Current Posts: 42
So, anyone out there with the knowledge and experience to speculate on how local teams will be ranked to start the season?? come-on someone take a shot at it!! Campo now D-3 with big seniors and some freshman hieght will be a factor this year. Miramonte, lost a few good seniors...they will have to work hard to return to NCS finals. Castro Valley, will be a long tough season...lost key players with little new help moving up. Deer Valley, again a team to watch...season could go hot or cold. Odowd, they look deep and strong through-out the roster. Should be highly ranked and favored to three-peat as NCS champs. Now, lets hear from the pros of east bay girls high school vb.
Joined: Sep 2006
Current Posts: 3041
I'll take a stab at the EBAL for this season. Defending NCS D1 and EBAL champion San Ramon Valley graduated all 6 starters from last year's squad, and will have their work cut out for them. NCS runner up Granada (Shaver) has some quality returnees and should be a strong contender again this season. Cal HS (Didio) beat every EBAL team at least once last season, but didn't get a chance to play at NCS due to their missing the NCS seeding meeting, but they lost their 2 first team all league stallions and should not be as good. Foothill (Dewitt), Amador Valley (Vickers, Williams & Baker) and Carondelet (Lamet) are always tough and will be in the mix, while Livermore looks to continue their improvement from last year and Monte Vista has nowhere to go but up. This league was as balanced as it could possibly be last year, and it may be the same this year. If pushed, I would have to go with AV and Granada to battle for the first two spots, Foothill and Carondelet volley for 3-4, Cal & SRV scrap for 6-7, while MV and Livermore fight it out for the last two spots. But anything can and usually does happen in the EBAL.
Joined: Nov 2008
Current Posts: 12
I would say your prognostication looks pretty close to my guess. Although as you said, anything can happen. Dusty gets more out of any team than is possible, which keeps FHS at the top every year. Soon we'll see if there are any surprises.
Go EBAL!
Joined: Jun 2006
Current Posts: 252
Yay for girl's volleyball!!! I have a personal interest so I may enjoy it quite a bit this year. Not much to say about Deer Valley and the BVAL since there really is not that much comp this year. Heritage may step up but I don't know. The fight is for the bridesmaid in that league. I just hope DV gets enough tough matches to be ready for the playoffs.
The EBAL should be the amazing Grace and AV show. The only caveat is that Dusty will have his usually good team in fighting form. So it won't be a cakewalk. Carondelet learned how rough this league is last year and should have adjusted. They were never out of games or overmatched last year but they had to figure out how to close teams out in this league. If Jerry figured that out, they'll be in the hunt. I for one always thinks Granada looks good - in the preseason - but once those league games start, they tighten up a bit. I'll be interested to see what happens this year. SRV should fall to the middle of the pack but they know how to overachieve. So they may fool everyone. I'm not too happy that Cal lost their coach behind that meeting snafu. I hoped that Courtney talked him into staying since he did help the boys out last year but if he doesn't maybe she'll jump in because they'll be in the mix. If not, oh well, there's always underwater basket weaving. Livermore actually looked good at times last year. Just the wrong league for them but I do think they might surprise some folks now.
The grapevine was whispering that BOD lost their first year coach. Not sure if that's true but if it is, that might disrupt things unless Tim's planning on coming back. The same suspects (Castro Valley and Moreau) will battle but those two may have fallen a step off.
Not sure about any other leagues right now without getting a glimpse of what's going on but when school starts and they finalize their teams and scrimmage, it should clear things up.
Joined: Sep 2006
Current Posts: 3041
Mr. T, I understand that Cal's coach changed his mind and decided to come back. He felt terrible over that NCS incident, and rightfully so, but live and learn. With 3 all league players coming back, AV should be the favorite, but you're right that Dusty's teams should never be counted out (and that Dewitt can really pound the ball).
Joined: Jun 2006
Current Posts: 252
Thanks 001, if that's the case, then the AD finally did something right because he really is a good coach, teacher and motivator. The girls like him and they can build on what they've put together. They'll be competitive. I forgot to mention Monte Vista but I'm not sure if their coach stayed around. She may have decided to focus on club ball. Regardless, I think they were going to have a hard time this year and may get bumped by Livermore.
Joined: Nov 2008
Current Posts: 12
Heard that MV wil be coached by an Altamont VBC coach (Derick?)
Joined: Aug 2009
Current Posts: 42
That would be a shocker if Gee left BOD! Tell us more! What happen?
How do you feel about Campo and Miramonte this year?
Joined: Jun 2006
Current Posts: 252
I really can't tell you anything because I don't know. It's just something I heard in passing. It doesn't make much sense but if there is something to it, I'll find out soon enough.
As far as Campo, Miramonte and the DFAL are concerned, there's not much to talk about until we see who's left. My guess, which is strictly in the blind, would be Miramonte because they had some young talent there that looked like they could step right in but I don't know enough yet.
Joined: Mar 2007
Current Posts: 31
The top teams this year, by league
Foothill , Amador Valley, Granada, Carondelet - take your pick in the toughest VB league in NCS
Miramonte, Campolindo - a toss up
Northgate, Clayton Valley - because you have to pick somebody
Deer Valley - is Liberty or Heritage ready to step up in this league
Albany- again, who else
Bishop O'Dowd- Castro Valley comes in 2nd again
James Logan -is MSJ ready to repeat what the boys team did?
Joined: Aug 2009
Current Posts: 42
Hey vbfan88, you've been around the sport for awhile "mar 2007",
how do you see the NCS titles this year?
I know you like Albany, what about Piedmont HS & St. Marys, any chance for surprises?
Joined: Aug 2009
Current Posts: 42
Nice article.
...it would have been nice to hear from the O'dowd Coach.
O'dowd's roster looks like a who's - who of local talent...a quick check of NCVA shows a large majority of their team were members of Gold level Power league teams attending the J.O.'s
Joined: Sep 2006
Current Posts: 3041
EAST BAY VOLLEYBALL NOTEBOOK
By Matt Smith
Monday, August 24th, 2009
Here is the first edition of the Volleyball Notes. Enjoy.
A couple of top-notch North Coast Section volleyball programs have seen changes at the top during the off-season, with some new coaches taking over at highly regarded schools.
Monte Vista High introduces Derek Phan as its new coach, as he takes over for Prima Elam and Las Lomas now has Sean Farlin on the bench instead of Christina Conroy.
While those are big changes, the biggest change happened at Miramonte High School.
The Matadors, who went 37-7 last year, were runner’s up in the NCS Division III playoffs and reached the NorCal semifinals in the state playoffs, will no longer have Chris Wells on the sidelines.
Wells, the Bay Area News Group’s East Bay coach of the year, has stepped down which has opened the door for a Miramonte graduate, Shannon Ross.
The 25-year old Ross, who graduated from MHS in 2002 where she lettered in volleyball for four years, served as an assistant to Wells last year.
“Certainly this is a transitional year,” Ross said. “But because I served as an assistant varsity coach last year, it has given me the tools for a smooth transition.”
The University of Oregon graduate knows she has some big shoes to fill and a lot is expected out of the Miramonte program this year.
“I do feel some pressure, any coach in my situation would,” Ross said. “We had an amazing year last year and I hope to follow it up with another great season.”
With seven returning key players, the Matadors should not only be favored to win the Diablo Foothill Athletic League, but reaching the NCS title game again should be within reach.
Miramonte enters the season ranked No. 2 in the Bay Area News Group’s East Bay Coaches poll. The team they are ranked behind, however, is another D III school. Bishop O’Dowd has the top spot, and the Dragons beat Miramonte in the championship match last year.
“I think we expect to do well,” Ross said. “We know we have a target on our backs and at times it will be tough but we are very, very hungry. Success for me would for me would be for all my players as individuals and then improve together as a team. But I would also like to get back to the NCS finals.”
One thing that will work in the favor of the Matadors is the return of last year’s DFAL MVP and Bay Area News Group East Bay player of the year, Juliana Stivanicevic.
Now in her senior season, the outside hitter and leader of the Mats should be even more of a tremendous force.
“Having a player like Juliana is very special,” Ross said. “She brings so much to our team. She has amazing talent, a tremendous heart and great leadership abilities. I think she can be a completely dominant player this year and I believe she can absolutely be the player of the year for the second year in a row.”
The admiration Ross has for Stivanicevic is shared by the star player as well, who is singing praise for the new coach.
“She’s amazing,” Stivanicevic said. “She brings such a positive energy into the gym and she’s a commanding presence. Everyone feeds off her energy and we expect great things.”
The Mats will also benefit from having a pair of fantastic setters in Mary Diamantidis and Sarah Vaccaro as well as other returning players like Haley Sayles.
Rankings
Here is the Bay Area News Group East Bay Coaches pre-season volleyball poll. As you can see, Division III is well represented with NCS champion Bishop O’Dowd coming in at No. 1 and runner-up Miramonte snagging the No. 2 ranking.
Defending Division I champ San Ramon Valley graduated some key players, but are still being respected as the Wolves are ranked sixth with D I runner-up Granada sliding in at No. 8. Campolindo, a DFAL team that could challenge Miramonte, is ranked fifth. The Cougars were the D II runners-up last season.
The DFAL is well represented with Las Lomas at No. 12 and Acalanes at No. 15.
The top ranked East Bay Athletic League team is No. 3 Amador Valley, which returns the area’s top middle, Grace Vickers. Foothill (No. 7), Carondelet (No. 10), California (No. 13) and Monte Vista (No. 14) assure that the EBAL is well represented.
Deer Valley is highly ranked at No. 4 and should set the pace in the Bay Valley Athletic League, while Castro Valley (No. 9) should be the class of the Hayward Area Athletic League and Albany (No. 11) looks to remain the force in the Bay Shore Athletic League.
1. Bishop O’Dowd
2. Miramonte
3. Amador Valley
4. Deer Valley
5. Campolindo
6. San Ramon Valley
7. Foothill
8. Granada
9. Castro Valley
10. Carondelet
11. Albany
12. Las Lomas
13. California
14. Monte Vista
15. Acalanes
Others receiving votes: Northgate, Piedmont, St. Mary’s, Mission San Jose, Berean Christian, Liberty, Logan.
Joined: Jun 2006
Current Posts: 252
Let me begin the nitpicking. I really like volleyball and for those that are new here, I'm always big on EBAL teams because they are always good and competitive games. I know the polls will shake out as the season goes on and as hard as it is to debate the top two teams, I will. Just by looking at the top fifteen, EBAL fills 7 of the slots (SRV should probably sink and MV will fall). Considering AV is essentially returning their entire team, somebody should have screamed louder for them to be #1. I like BOD and Mira and I understand the reasoning for their placement but just like Carondelet (a good team that would have challenged Campo, Las Lomas & Carillo in DII - if they could have made the playoffs) learned last year, there are no easy games in this league and whoever stands out can make a good case for being the best in the area. Especially if 7 of 8 teams in that league are in the top 15. The good thing is there are some good to great tournaments this year (Deer Valley, Northgate, Chico, Castro Valley, etc...) to settle things.
Joined: Mar 2007
Current Posts: 31
As we all know, polls, especially preseason high school polls, are completly meaningless. The only good thing about them is that it gets the talk and interest started. I agree - Amador could be rated to low, Miramonte and maybe BOD and especially Deer Valley are way to high and everyone else, who knows. The Wolverine Invitational kicks off the season on Sept 12 - most of the teams in the poll are gonna be there. After that weekend polls might make some sense.
Joined: Aug 2009
Current Posts: 42
I would not agree they are meaningless...presuming the polls are based on some understanding of team rosters, player skills and experience.
Polls such as these give coaches and teams an idea of how strong or weak they are perceived to be relative to their competition. This hopefully is translated by coaches into a plan of action during practices and game prep. It also provides an idea of where coaches should spend time scouting/researching teams if they foresee playing them during the regular or post season.
I personally like the coverage the CC times provides, but would like to see additional coverage of HS Girls VB if at all possible.
Joined: Sep 2006
Current Posts: 3041
EAST BAY GIRLS VOLLEYBALL NOTEBOOK
By Matt Smith
Monday, August 31st, 2009 at 1:04 pm
Here is the second week of the East Bay Girls Volleyball Notebook. We’re talking Deer Valley Tournament and getting to know Amador Valley’s Grace Vickers. Enjoy.
What would North Coast Section girls volleyball be without the Deer Valley Invitational?
The tournament has always been a great early season display of teams to watch for in the East Bay, and the 14th annual Wolverine Varsity Invitational will be no exception.
On Saturday Sep. 12, we will have an idea of the team’s to watch out for as the level of play promises to be very high.
Nine out of the 15 teams ranked in the Bay Area News Group’s East Bay Girls Volleyball Coaches Poll are going to be present including: Bishop O’Dowd (No. 1), Amador Valley (No. 3), Deer Valley (No. 4), San Ramon Valley (No. 6), Foothill (No. 7) Castro Valley (No. 9), Carondelet (No. 10), Albany (No. 11) and Acalanes (No. 15).
“Over the past few years we’ve been able to attract some of the better teams around,” Deer Valley coach Lou Panzella said. “We are the first big tournament in the area, and thankfully some of the best teams in NCS want to participate.”
Other East Bay teams taking part will be Concord, Liberty, Northgate and St. Patrick-St. Vincent. There will also be a few out of area teams that are very good which include Maria Carrillo-Petaluma, Presentation-San Jose and Sacred Heart Cathedral-San Francisco.
Carrillo won the NCS DivisionII title and reached the NorCal semi-finals, Presentation reached the Central Coast Section’s Division II quarterfinals before running into eventual champ Archbishop Mitty and Sacred Heart was the CCS Division III champion.
“Each year the tournament seems to get more balanced with no clear cut favorite,” Panzella said. “Last year when seeding I really felt anyone of at least 10 different teams had a real shot at winning. Seeding has become increasingly difficult, as witnessed by last year’s final with Deer Valley and Granada. Both teams came out of the same pool.”
Granada, the defending champion, won’t be in the tournament this year. Panzella is regretful that the Matadors will not be as a communication error is responsible for keeping them out.
It still promises to be a very competitive tournament and even some good teams are going to struggle. Once the tournament gets into the quarterfinals and the semifinals, expect intense volleyball with a playoff atmosphere.
“This year there will be a very, very good team that will come in and go 1-4 or 0-5 on the day, but will still be a very high quality team,” Panzella said. “I don’t think we have any really weak teams. But the real reason our tournament has been good is because we have great local teams, with outstanding coaches who return year after year. They make the tournament work.”
The tournament will get underway at 8:30 a.m., with finals scheduled for around 7:00 p.m. There will be a $5 entry fee, with $2 of every fee being donated to the American Diabetes Association.
Rankings
The rankings will stay the same this week. We’ll have an update next week when most teams have started playing.
1. Bishop O’Dowd
2. Miramonte
3. Amador Valley
4. Deer Valley
5. Campolindo
6. San Ramon Valley
7. Foothill
8. Granada
9. Castro Valley
10. Carondelet
11. Albany
12. Las Lomas
13. California
14. Monte Vista
15. Acalanes
Others receiving votes: Northgate, Piedmont, St. Mary’s, Mission San Jose, Berean Christian, Liberty, Logan.
Joined: Jun 2006
Current Posts: 252
I love the fact that the DV tourney is really the tipping point for this season. A lot of tough teams trying to get in that first blow. Everyone will have a real good idea of where they stand and what they have to do to step up once the final whistle blows.
Joined: Nov 2008
Current Posts: 12
I agree with VBfan88; that first ranking of the season doesn't predict the November finishes. It makes me wonder what the coaches who were polled, were considering. Knowing which stars graduated this summer, should have impacted their poll.
As Mr Temptation mentioned, MV will likely not be on the list, and AV will likely be on top.
DV Jamboree today may not be where this season's starting lineups are exposed, but you could still see the flaws in the coach's rankings.
It was great to see the Vball community today, 2009 season beginning on such a beautiful day in Antioch.
Joined: Mar 2007
Current Posts: 31
You are never sure if coaches are experimenting, trying new lineups or getting some bench players PT, but some of the teams that looked really good today were Carondelet, Albany, Campo, Granada, Foothill, Deer Valley. Not in that order.
The Deer Valley Invitational next week should help sort things out.
Joined: Jun 2006
Current Posts: 252
Yeah, the usual suspects looked pretty decent but I liked what I saw from Acalanes as well. The DFAL should be an interesting race.
Joined: Sep 2009
Current Posts: 7
Can't wait for Tournament!
I see a tight race with Albany, AV, BOD, & Miramonte at end.
Joined: Sep 2009
Current Posts: 1
How was San Ramon looking? I heard there was a new coach and they're coming a long really well. fill me in!
Joined: Sep 2009
Current Posts: 7
Tom was there and had a new assistant. Team looked great considering last year's starters are gone. Sarah Board is a terrific setter, smart and calm, putting the ball where it needs to go. The team is made up of solid club girls. Although they won't likely take league, they should have a competitive season.
Joined: Sep 2009
Current Posts: 1
Wolves/player parents, let's not self-promote or have others promote our children. Please, keep this "board" unbiased and respectable.
Joined: Jun 2006
Current Posts: 252
Let them "self-promote", jump up and down, scream or do whatever they want on these "respectable" boards. Who cares? I would like to hear anyone and everyone's opinion on this volleyball season. Parents, players and the POTUS if he wants to come on here and write about it. Let the conversation go on. Pride makes for some interesting exchanges.
Joined: Aug 2009
Current Posts: 42
so lets talk about the game between BOD and Campo tonight.
Should be a fight #1 vs. #5...both NCS Div3...could be prelude to NCS finals.
Let me hear what the pro's have top say about the match ups...
heres what little i know...BOD's entire front line (both rotations) are 6ft plus with great setter and libero moving ball around the court...
Campo has some big hitters/blockers in Eberhart and the Schurtz sisters.
Someone fill in the blanks..
Joined: Nov 2008
Current Posts: 12
I've seen both teams this year and predict BOD will come away with the W. Their seasoned talent will prevail. Campo has some real talent as well, but not as many seniors, and they aren't playing together as a team as cohesively as BOD.
Joined: Sep 2006
Current Posts: 3041
I agree there is nothing wrong with some self-promotion, as long as it is in good taste. I saw nothing wrong with any of the prior comments relating to the Wolves. Certainly, if they get on here and start bad-mouthing Monte Vista players, I could see a problem. But the Wolves supporters have always done a good job in discussing v-ball in the past and there is no reason to silence them now.
It looks like the Amador-Miramonte match last night was a good one, with AV taking them in 4 close games. I think Mr. T was right in putting AV in as the EBAL favorites this season. They just have so many strong returnees.
Joined: Sep 2009
Current Posts: 7
When asked how the wolves looked, I simply responded honestly as to what I saw. I have absolutely no affiliation with SRVHS, nor any reason to "promote" anyone on the team. So there was absolutely no bias. Jump to conclusions much?
Joined: Aug 2009
Current Posts: 42
As I suspected, it was a fight last night in Oakland with Campo winning in 4 (25-23,23-25,25-23,25-21)
Campo's defense with great blocking and flawless digging slowed Odowd's power offense just enough to keep Campo in all the games. Odowd's passing game was off the mark all night long with endless errors in the backrow never allowing their setters to run clean plays. Odowd's blockers seemed a bit slow, never quite able to shut down Eberhart or Schurtz.
Odowd however did show in game four, despite lossing, how powerfull they are. Odowd was down by 8 at (7-15) and went on a 11-3 run to tie the score at 18 and kept it tied until 21.
I foresee these two meeting for the NCS Title in November.
P.S. I also cannot wait to see what happens this weekend at DV.
Joined: Sep 2006
Current Posts: 3041
That looks like it was a great match last night. Congrats to Campo. Should be some more great matches this weekend.
Smith: Should be a September to remember for East Bay girls volleyball
Correspondent
By now everyone should be aware that the Deer Valley Tournament, a huge early season who's who of North Coast Section girls volleyball, is this Saturday. But where else can good games be found for the month of September? Well, I'm glad you asked.
It starts today, with a big preseason match between Miramonte and Amador Valley in Pleasanton. The Matadors are ranked No. 2 in this weeks Bay Area News Group's East Bay Coaches Poll and the Dons are ranked third. The very next day, the top-ranked Bishop O'Dowd Dragons will be put to the test when they host Campolindo. The Cougars are ranked No. 5. The Cougars are then involved in a big match a week later, taking on No. 7 Foothill at home.
On Sep. 17, Miramonte is tested again, this time welcoming in No. 8 Granada. The Matadors (Granada, that is) are the NCS Division I runners up from last year and the Matadors (Miramonte, this time) were the runners up in D III. Toward the end of the month, there are a lot of league games to keep an eye on, including an East Bay Athletic League battle that will see No. 9 San Ramon Valley travel to take on No. 6 Carondelet on Sep. 22. On Sep. 29 there is another key league battle, this time in the Diablo Foothill Athletic League as Campolindo travels to take on Miramonte.
On top of that, there is the Albany Tournament on Sep. 19 that the tenth-ranked Cougars are hosting and many good teams will be present. With schedules being incomplete early on, it was impossible to find all the good matches, and some will definitely materialize as the month goes on with teams proving themselves.
So it kicks off this weekend and then the month will be littered with great volleyball. Remember, the DV tournament will get underway at 8:30 a.m., with finals scheduled for around 7 p.m. There will be a $5 entry fee, with $2 of every fee being donated to the American Diabetes Association.
Rankings
Not much movement in the rankings. This weekened will go a long way in sorting some things out for the early part of the season. For now, the top five stay the same. Carondelet makes the biggest jump, moving from No. 11 to No. 6. Other than that, there were only small shifts. Nobody moved in or out this week.
1. Bishop O'Dowd
2. Miramonte
3. Amador Valley
4. Deer Valley
5. Campolindo
6. Carondelet
7. Foothill
8. Granada
9. San Ramon Valley
10. Albany
11. Castro Valley
12. California
13. Acalanes
14. Monte Vista
15. Las Lomas
Others receiving votes: Northgate, Berean Christian, Liberty, Mission San Jose, Heritage.
Joined: Aug 2009
Current Posts: 42
DV Tournament seedings/pools posted.
AV #1, BOD #2, SCHP #3, MC #4.
Don't foresee any #1's being upset in pool play...the #2's in each pool will likely be where the fights will occur.
cya there...the season starts 2morrow.
Amador Valley
Joined: Jun 2006
Current Posts: 252
Pool A
Pool B
Pool C
Pool D
There'll be a lot of good matches here.
Joined: Aug 2009
Current Posts: 42
Presentation beats Sacred Heart to win Tournament.
BOD and Amador tie for 3rd.
BOD lost to Presentation in semi's, Amador lost to Sacred Heart.
It was a great day of vball.
Joined: Mar 2007
Current Posts: 31
Lots of very good, competitive matches - really no weak teams - great volleyball, plus part of the entry fee charged at the door is being donated to Diabetes association
weird day started with thunder & lightning and rain - in September?
I may have 1 or 2 out of place
1) Presentation
2) Sacred Heart
3) Amador Valley, O'Dowd
5) Albany, Carondelet
7) Northgate, San Ramon
9) Foothill
10) Maria Carillo
11) Liberty, StPatrick-St Vincent
13) Castro Valley, Deer Valley
15) Acalanes, Concord
Joined: Nov 2008
Current Posts: 12
Anyone see how Foothill and Albany each did against their opponents? Curious about who they beat and who they lost to.
Joined: Aug 2009
Current Posts: 42
Albany lost to Pres. in quarter finals 15-25, 13-25...and it truly wasn't that close as Pres. subbed in second string in both games.
Albany beat Northgate in quarter final play-off match in a good showing 25-19, 25-18.
Albany has a good mix of players and a big OH that in coming years could be a big factor.
Joined: Sep 2008
Current Posts: 18
I'm hearing second hand that there is a lot of upside to the Albany player. Raw talent, probably new to the sport, but has more athleticism as a freshman than anyone currently playing the sport in the east bay.
Joined: Aug 2009
Current Posts: 42
Would have been nice to see BOD & Amador play.
Clearly two of the strongest in the East Bay.
Will be interesting to see the outcome of Amador and Campo this week.
I see this weeks East Bay rankings as #1 Campo, #2 BOD and #3 Amador.
I believe Carondolet and Albany will move up, while Deer Valley, SRV, & CV will fall.
Joined: Sep 2006
Current Posts: 3041
EAST BAY GIRLS VOLLEYBALL NOTEBOOK
By Matt Smith
Monday, September 14th, 2009
This week’s girls volleyball notes. A lot of stuff happening. It’s not about where you start, it’s about where you finish. However, if the starting point for the Bishop O’Dowd High School girls volleyball season is any indication, the Dragons should finish with a great year. After winning the North Coast Section’s Division III title a year ago, they return 10 players making it no surprise that the Dragons were picked as the No. 1 team in the Bay Area News Group’s East Bay coaches poll.
“There is definitely pressure entering the season as the top team,” Bishop O’Dowd coach Mike Gee said. “Every team you play is gunning for you and there is a big target on your back, so there is a lot of pressure.” But with so many returning players, the Dragons are a team that can handle the pressure that comes with high expectations. “Certainly the experience that our returners got from last season will help us,” Gee said. “We’ve got the talent, we’ve got the size and we’ve got the athleticism but it will be about what we’ve learned.” Among the returning players for the Dragons is outside hitter, Katie Huntington who can be a dominant force on a team with many different dominant players and many different options.
“We’re very excited. Every match and every game is a challenge,” Huntington said. “That ranking is a confidence booster. Every practice of ours is super competitive and we are pushing each other to be the best that we can be. It’s a challenge. It’s not necessarily easy, but it’s fun and after practice you feel like you’ve accomplished something.” What Bishop O’Dowd, which is currently ranked No. 3, hopes to accomplish, is a deep run in the state playoffs. Last year they were knocked out in the NorCal quarterfinals by Valley Christian-San Jose.
“Obviously we want to reach our goals of winning NCS and going to state,” Huntington said. “But if something happens along the way and we don’t, it’s not a waste. We’ll grow and have a good time together. Hopefully we get to state, but it’s about having fun and if nothing else it will be a good experience for those coming back next year.” Playing a tough non-league schedule, which includes matches against Campolindo and Sacred Heart Cathedral-San Francisco, as well ast the Deer Valley Tournament, the Durango Classic in Las Vegas, the Great Eight Tournament in Sacramento and the Northgate Tournament, should have them prepared for a playoff run.
And with returning players like libero Rachel Stier, outside hitter/middle Alexandra Lynch, setter/outside Lindsey Parrott and oustside/middle Andrea Olsen, they have the firepower and the drive to make such a run. “We definitely have a competitive spirit,” Gee said. “We have a lot of weapons and they do a good job of being steady and consistent. Our drive could be the difference.”
Deer Valley Tournament
It’s still very early in the season, but the Deer Valley Tournament did help us sort a few things out. We know that Amador Valley and Bishop O’Dowd are very good. Both teams could have easily made the finals, and the Dons probably should have. They led 19-13 in the second game of their semifinal match with Sacred Heart Cathedral, and after having won the first game, were in prime position to close the door. But they did not and the Irish came back for the win. Amador Valley has now split a pair of matches with Sacred Heart in tournament play.
The Dragons lost to the eventual champion, Presentation of San Jose, but after a few early miscues they looked to get timid and kind of got away from their game. This O’Dowd team is still figuring a few things out, but boy are they talented. Albany, Northgate and Carondelet made good statements on Saturday, and after a rough go in pool play, Foothill bounced back to win the consolation bracket. I’ve always said you never bet against a team coached by Dusty Collins. Foothill will be tough this year despite the rough start to the morning.
Rankings
Now that the Deer Valley Tournament has told us a bit, and now that we have an idea of what most of the teams are up to, here are the updated rankings. As you can see, Amador Valley slides into the No. 1 spot, with Campolindo coming in at No. 2 and Bishop O’Dowd at No. 3. I still get the sense that the Dragons are considered the most talented and dangerous team.
Let’s welcome Northgate and Liberty to the rankings, coming in at No. 8 and No. 10, respectively, after impressive showings at Deer Valley. Moreau Catholic, Clayton Valley and Berean Christian are new to the rankings as well. Miramonte slides down two spots to No. 4, with Carondelet rounding out the top five. The biggest changes see Albany jump four spots to No. 6, Foothill drops four spots to No. 11 and Castro Valley, California, Monte Vista, Acalanes and Las Lomas slide out this week. The biggest drop sees Deer Valley fall from No. 4 to No. 12, but never count out the Wolverines. They’ll be in the mix all season long.
1. Amador Valley
2. Campolindo
3. Bishop O’Dowd
4. Miramonte
5. Carondelet
6. Albany
7. Granada
8. Northgate
9. San Ramon Valley
10. Liberty
11. Foothill
12. Deer Valley
13. Moreau Catholic
14. Clayton Valley
15. Berean Christian
Others receiving votes: Castro Valley, Mission San Jose, St. Patrick-St. Vincent, Monte Vista, California.
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Wow! What a match in Pleasanton tonight! Game 5, 13 to 13, new game to 2
Campo pulls out the next two points to take the match. Great effort on both sides of the net.
Joined: Aug 2009
Current Posts: 42
We now know Campo is for real and should be next weeks #1 East Bay Team.
Campo's next test will be Miramonte who lost to Amador in 4 a few weeks ago.
If they beat Mira, Campo will surely be a serious threat to BOD's three-peat NCS title hopes.
Go Campo!!
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Current Posts: 7
Does anyone know the teams attending this Saturday's Albany Tournament, or know where one might find it? I've checked Albany H.S. Website, and can't find anything.
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Current Posts: 7
Does anyone know the teams attending this Saturday's Albany Tournament, or know where one might find it? I've checked Albany H.S. Website, and can't find anything.
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"If they beat Mira, Campo will surely be a serious threat to BOD's three-peat NCS title hopes."
They are already a serious threat, regardless of who wins theCampo-Mira grudge match. To go to Pleasanton and beat AV on the road, they have served notice they can play with anyone. Sounds like it was a great match.
Joined: Aug 2009
Current Posts: 42
"001" i'm also a Campo supporter. It seems very likely BOD will be defending their Title against either Campo or Mira. The Campo/Mira grudge match is likely to make it clear which team BOD will see. A Campo/BOD title match would be a grudge match for Campo, as BOD's NCS title run started agianst Campo two years ago.
Joined: Sep 2009
Current Posts: 8
Here are the teams entered for the Albany tournament:
Albany
Miramonte
Drake
Monte Vista
Carondelet
Las Lomas
St Marys
Granada
Maria Carillo
Marin Catholic
Clayton Valley
Mercy High
Piedmont
Balboa
Acalanes
And they are looking for 1 more... a team dropped out this week.
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By Matt Smith
Monday, September 21st, 2009
Rankings
The poll has now officially become Bay Area News Group’s East Bay Rankings, which I am doing myself based on all the info I am gathering. They aren’t changing much this week. There are a few adjustments, one being Campolindo moving up to the top and Amador Valley sliding down one notch. Albany moves up one spot to No. 5 and Granada moves up one to No. 6. Also, welcome Heritage and Salesian to the top 15.
1. Campolindo
2. Amador Valley
3. Bishop O’Dowd
4. Miramonte
5. Albany
6. Granada
7. Carondelet
8. Northgate
9. San Ramon Valley
10. Liberty
11. Foothill
12. Deer Valley
13. Heritage
14. Salesian
15. Moreau Catholic
Others considered: Berean Christian, Irvington, Mission San Jose, Washington, Clayton Valley, St. Patrick-St. Vincent, St. Mary’s, Castro Valley, California, Alameda.
Joined: Sep 2008
Current Posts: 16
3 out of the 4 teams making the semis were NCS D3 teams. It definitely seems like D3 is loaded with talented teams. Albany has some talented defensive players and a few offensive guns that are capable of making big plays. They struggled to get much going against Drake, who defeated Albany in straight sets. Drake seemed to have a lot more left in the tank late in the day. Drake looked pretty good. They serve well and run a very fast offense. Albany was unable to stop Drake's quick attack patterns. Drake should definitely be a threat in NCS.
I didn't see much of the other semifinal match going on, but I believe Miramonte defeated Marin Catholic on their way to defending their title against Drake in the finals.
Miramonte took the first game 25-15. Their tough jump serves were too much for Drake to get any kind of offense going early in the game. Miramonte was on cruise control steaming through game 1. Game 2 was a different story. Miramonte struggled to pass in serve receive as Drake started to stick their serves. Miramonte was probably just caught sleeping a bit after an easy win in the first game. Both teams looked pretty physical at the net, but Drake ran off several back-to-back blocks to give them a comfortable lead. Drake took the second game 25-16. The third game was pretty interesting. For anyone who was there, you know what I'm talking about. Lets just say it was a long day for everyone... including the refs. As things started to pick up, it looked like Drake would take game 3, however, Miramonte just wouldn't allow it. Still upset with their losses to Drake last year, Miramonte wanted to make a statement. And they sure did. Before you knew it Miramonte had taken the third game 15-7.
Look out for these two teams. Drake has got some serious fire power and a very fast offense. Good luck stopping them when their taking care of the ball. As far as Miramonte goes... don't get on their bad side. When this team turns it on it's lights out for their opponent.
Based on what I've seen over the last few weeks it looks like any of this week's top four teams could be No. 1.
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O'Dowd d. Sacred Heart Cathedral in straight sets on Tuesday on the road without 6-3 senior MB Andrea Olsen (committed to Notre Dame), who suffered an ankle sprain early in game 1. 5-5 senior OH Molly Kennedy would answer the call and take Olsen's place for the rest of the match. She said she had played middle before... so we went with it.
Scores:
25-18, 25-19, 25-21
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Current Posts: 42
Downing Sacred Heart in straight sets should send a message to other Div 3 teams.
coachmikegee, any stats available for us vball fans. Haven't found anything on Maxprep. Can you post?
Amador Valley lost to Sacred Heart in 3 at DV Tourny, and Miramonte lost to Amador. I would expect to see O'dowd move up to #2 in the East Bay rankings next week, with Amador dropping to #3.
I see Campo beat Los Lomas last night...but it took 4 games....that was a surprise to some.
My money's on Campo & Odowd in a NCS 3 title battle in Nov.
Joined: Sep 2008
Current Posts: 16
Senior setter Sarah Knox led the team with 15 assists and 2 aces.
Junior opposite/setter Lindsey Parrott had 11 kills, 3 solo blocks, and 8 assists.
Junior outside hitter Alex Lynch followed with 8 kills and 5 digs.
Senior opposite Katie Huntington finished with 7 kills.
Senior libero Rachel Stier and senior outside hitter Monique Holt registered 15 digs each.
Junior middle blocker Jordan Pehanick also had 3 solo blocks and 4 kills.
Senior outside hitter Molly Kennedy made things interesting with 3 kills in the M1 position.
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Current Posts: 7
I wouldn't be so quick to move AV down the list. AV has also beaten Scared Heart Cathedral. If Sacred Heart played at full strength in their recent match vs BOD, then a straight set win is an accomplishment. Yes, it would have been nice to see a head to head match-up of BOD and AV at DV. But anything can happen after you play 5 matches in a day.
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Current Posts: 42
vbs001, it appears you are a Amador supporter. Your team looks good. It was a great match with Campo!! Sorry we won.
I meant no insult by suggesting AV may drop to #3. It was simply based on the fact BOD went to S.F. and beat SHCP at home in straight sets with scores that appear to reflect that only the last game might have been close. SHCP rarely loses at home, except to Mitty.
As far as the DV tourny, SHCP went on to play a sixth match with Pres and took them to 3 games before lossing. Pres beat Odowd in 2 at DV and beat Campo in straight sets (3 of 5 formate) at the Mitty Tourny.
Perhaps your coach can speak with the odowd coach, and if their respective schedules have room within league allowed limited, you can arrange a match. It would be one hell of a match to watch. Could be a great fundraiser to sell tickets.
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Current Posts: 7
No insult taken. I see a lot of volleyball and support many of the teams. The comment regarding “full strength” is really a question. At DV, SH played Presentation in the finals without two of their strongest hitters on the court. Sacred Heart also beat Presentation at the Milpitas Tourney full strength. For many of these teams, especially in high school, it makes a difference if teams are missing players. In the top teams in the East Bay rankings there really isn’t a powerhouse. On any given day you could see a different outcome.
There’s some great volleyball to be seen in the East Bay, some very good players making their last rounds as seniors, and many of these players will go on to play in college. It’s just a pleasure to watch and appreciate the skill.
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Current Posts: 252
What I have seen so far is that no bay area team is head and shoulders above the other teams. Every one of the top tier teams are capable of beating of beating everyone else and that's what's been happening. Now that we're getting into league play, just look for the team that can finally hit it's stride and take it into the playoffs. The rankings will be in flux for the rest of the season. I still think AV is probably the best but I've seen them have let downs at the most inopportune times and that will continue to bite them until they correct it. They've got too much talent not to finish on top.
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Current Posts: 42
Your point is valid....
It is my understanding that BOD and SHCP are long time cross bay rivals, as well, past State Level Div 3 competitors...I would sure think SHCP put their best team on the floor Tues night. I also hear the game was web-cast and filmed by Cal Hi Sports. That should have added to SHCP motivation to win!
P.S. I read above that BOD lost their 6-3 starting middle (signed with ND) early in the first game...that should have left a huge hole for SHCP to attack, but BOD adjusted. That's a sign of a strong team!!
As a Campo fan, I'm just a bit concerned about BOD's potental, as they are loaded with talent and when on their "A" game may be hard to stop. I hate to say this, but I don't believe they were on their "A" game when we played them...poor blocking and a load of passing errors.
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Current Posts: 42
For those who watch Maxpreps, they have updated their vball rankings for California.
At first glance these ranking DO NOT seem to take into consideration results from the Durango Classic.
A number of East Bay schools are in the States top 50...and its possible BOD may break the top 25 next week when durango results are included.
I will be at Campo game tomorrow with Mira...should be one of h..eck of a game.
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Current Posts: 3041
The EBAL standings are starting to take form after just 2 games, with 3 teams at the top and 3 teams at the bottom. It is clear that Amador is the favorite right now, but Granada and Foothill are right there ready to take over should they fall.
Amador Valley 2-0
Granada 2-0
Foothill 2-0
Carondelet 1-1
SRV 1-1
Cal 0-2
MV 0-2
Livermore 0-2
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Current Posts: 3041
EAST BAY GIRLS VOLLEYBALL NOTEBOOK
By Matt Smith
Monday, September 28th, 2009
Rankings
Not many changes this week. Foothill and Deer Valley move up a slot and Berean comes back in. Tuesday’s match when Campolindo visits Miramonte could shake things up.
1. Campolindo
2. Amador Valley
3. Bishop O’Dowd
4. Miramonte
5. Albany
6. Granada
7. Carondelet
8. Northgate
9. San Ramon Valley
10. Foothill
11. Deer Valley
12. Moreau Catholic
13. Salesian
14. Berean Christian
15. Heritage
Others considered: Liberty, Irvington, Mission San Jose, Washington, Clayton Valley, St. Patrick-St. Vincent, St. Mary’s, Alameda, Acalanes, San Leandro.
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Current Posts: 7
I hear Miramonte has 3 girls sick.... Would have preferred to see both at full roster battle it out.
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Current Posts: 42
Who's out of action?
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Luckily, this won't be the last meeting between these 2 powerhouses.
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Current Posts: 10
Off to a slow start.... young team but beat Foothill tonight in 4!
Should be getting better and better by the end of the season
Joined: Aug 2009
Current Posts: 42
Great game last night.
Miramonte came out ready and focused, Campo did not.
It appeared Campo was over confident and was not prepared to make adjustments for Miramonte blocking.
This was a wake-up call for Campo. They will travel to Sac this weekend for the Great 8 Tourney and face teams like Miramonte all day long...even possibly BOD who is favored to win the Tourney.
As noted above, I'm NOW also glad we will get another chance to play Miramonte.
Joined: Sep 2009
Current Posts: 5
Hmm ... Campo was not ready, not focused and overconfident. Good golly, lets hope the poor Mats (who are 11 - 1 and won the Albany tournament) can even hang with Campo next time around. Can they get just a modicum of credit for perhaps outplaying Campo on that given night? Some of the generous Campo parents claimed that they though Campo played fairly well and just happend to get slightly outplayed that night. Campo is a very talented team make no mistake about it and the rematch will be a good one again. Let's hope the Mats don't come in not ready, not focused and overconfident ;-)
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Congrats to the Mats on their hard fought win, and also to Cal on their first league win over previously unbeaten Foothill. Granada beat MV in 4, Carondelet took down Livermore in 3 and Amador swept SRV in 3. Amador and Granada appear headed for a showdown sometime soon. The EBAL standings now look like this:
Amador Valley 3-0
Granada 3-0
Foothill 2-1
Carondelet 2-1
SRV 1-2
Cal 1-2
MV 0-3
Livermore 0-3
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Current Posts: 8
Nice job to both Granada and San Ramon for an outstanding effort last night. Both teams fought hard.
Good job Granada on the win! You would never guess San Ramon didn't return any starters this year.
Nice job girls.
How did everyone else do last night?
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Current Posts: 42
Has anyone heard who's attending and what pools look like?
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Current Posts: 7
Pool One: St, Francis; Oak Ridge; Campo; BOD
Pool Two: Christian Brothers; Rocklin; Nevada Union; Napa
Christian Brothers(host) did themselves pretty good on this draw.
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Current Posts: 42
Thx...so BOD will get another chance at Campo...
I guess when you host a tournament, you can arrange the pools to your favor...most of the time its not quite as obvious as this...clearly pool one will be the place to watch great vball.
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Current Posts: 8
For winning the Castro Valley tournament!
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Current Posts: 42
Do you have complete results...or at least top 5?
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Current Posts: 8
1. Granada
2. Analy
3. Sonoma/Castro Valley
5. San Ramon/ Acalanes
7. Tokay/Carondelet
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Current Posts: 16
O'Dowd claims the Great Eight Invitational in Sacramento hosted by Christian Brothers HS.
O'Dowd tournament results:
vs. Campolindo (Moraga, CA) 23-25, 25-19, 15-10 - WIN
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Current Posts: 42
I was in Sac yesterday. Campo played very hard against BOD...in a match that determined who moved into the winners bracket. Campo went on a 10-3 run in game one to over come a 20-15 score to win the game 25-23. However, it appeared we ran out of steam and never were in game two or three. As I mentioned a few weeks ago, when BOD plays their "A" game, very hard to stop them. Their setters have weapons every where and if the pass is good it will be a quick set to any spot on the net. Hard to defend and perdict making blocking difficult.
BOD's later victories over CB and St. Francis (who they lost to in pool play) revealed that BOD only got better as the day went on. BOD had only five (unforced) errors (that I noticed) in their final match with St. Francis, two serving errors and three hitting errors. Their passing and blocking was perfect.
I hope we will see BOD again...and will hope it is in the NCS finals.
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Current Posts: 7
We must have been watching different games. Game 2 Campo had an 18-14 lead over BOD and the Dragons went on a 11-2 run. Their server had serves that baffled the Campo back row. Great job by the Dragons to keep the "MO" going in game 3 as the Cougs still had issues with passing. After watching both pools play in the morning, it was very clear that Pool "A" had the better teams. The Dragons kept their composure and played very sound volleyball the balance of the tourney. I hope to see BOD again in NCS but if we do, we need to tighten up our game.
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Current Posts: 42
I tried not to remember that part...too painful.
I don't believe it was a 11-2 run as the score would have been 25-20...the final score was 25-19 as noted above.
I also don't recall any BOD server going on a long serving run...I may have blanked that out too.
Perhaps "coachmikegee" can fill in blanks/details about game 2. Did you have a server or two make a big run in game two that help you win that game??
Joined: Sep 2008
Current Posts: 16
Recap:
Game 1: O'Dowd takes a 3-1 lead with 2 kills and 1 hitting error (HE) by Campo. Campo then jumps ahead 4-3 off a kill, ace, and O'Dowd HE. Things stayed pretty even early on with the score tied at 7-7 and 8-8, but O'Dowd would begin putting small runs together to go up by three in the middle of the first game. After leading 15-12, 18-13, and 20-15 Campo would come alive and go on a 6-0 run to take the lead at 21-20. Tied at 21-21, O'Dowd would make back-to-back hitting errors to give Campo a two point lead. A Campo kill would give them game point 24-21, but O'Dowd wasn't giving up. A kill and a stuff block would keep things interesting at 24-23 with Campo still holding on to game point. Campo would finish it with a kill to steal game 1.
Game 2: Campo would continue to carry their momentum into game 2. Jumping ahead 7-3 and 10-6, it seamed as though Campo would take the match in straight sets. O'Dowd would wake up and take advantage of several unforced errors by Campo to tie things up at 14-14. An O'Dowd service error and hitting error would put Campo up 16-14. Just when it looked like Campo had their two-point cushion back, O'Dowd would go on a 7-0 run stunning Campo's serve-receive passers. Campo would finally side-out to stop the bleeding at 21-17, but a Campo hitting error would give it right back. Now 22-17, Campo would score off back-to-back kills, however it just wasn't enough. O'Dowd would finish the game with a three-point run to send the match to a third game.
Game 3: O'Dowd scores off a kill and stuff block. A service error and Campo kill would tie things up at 2-2. O'Dowd would pull ahead by a Campo net violation, SRE, and a kill by middle blocker Andrea Olsen. An O'Dowd SE and a Campo kill would get the Courgas back within one. A serving error by both teams would make it 6-5 (O'Dowd leads). Campo would miss another serve and hit the ball in the net to put O'Dowd up 8-5. O'Dowd would then go on a 4-1 run to get to 12-6. Both teams would trade kills, but it was all O'Dowd in the end. Now 13-7, back-to-back hitting errors by O'Dowd would keep Campo in the game, however, it was just too late. An O'Dowd kill would give the Dragons match point at 14-9. A Campo kill would let everyone know they weren't going down without a fight, but O'Dowd would answer back and claim the match.
These two teams will likely see each other again at the Northgate Tournament on October 31st.
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Current Posts: 42
Thx coachmikegee...nice detail.
So who was the server that set our serve-receive back...we need to have a "little discussion" with her...
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Current Posts: 7
It was a nice recap if you throw out the word "steal" for game one. The word "earn" would be correct. C'mon Gee:) The player is their second setter. Don't know her name. Very effective server.
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Current Posts: 3041
EAST BAY GIRLS VOLLEYBALL NOTEBOOK
By Matt Smith
Monday, October 5th, 2009
Rankings
I knew this week was going to be hard as far as the rankings are concerned, and there was no way to possibly make everyone happy. The top four were hard to decide on, but I moved Bishop O’Dowd back to No. 1. The Dragons avenged their loss to Campolindo, and they jump Amador Valley because they beat Sacred Heart Cathedral, who the Dons have split with, and beat St. Mary’s-Stockton, who the Dons lost to.
Miramonte, though losing to Amador Valley in its first match of the year, moves to No. 2. The Mats swept Campolindo, who beat Amador Valley and have won 10-straight matches. They would have been No. 1 had O’Dowd not beaten Campolindo at the Great-8 Tournament. Campolindo’s win over Amador Valley is more recent than the Dons win over Miramonte, so Campolindo stays at No. 3. I am sure not everyone will love this, but there was no situation that would have made everyone happy.
The middle of the rankings were even harder. It was easy to keep Albany and Granada at fifth and sixth, especially with Granada winning the Castro Valley Tournament, but after that it’s a mess. Because they have been consistent and haven’t lost in quite a while, Moreau Catholic jumps to No. 7 and will have a chance to back up that ranking at O’Dowd on Oct. 8.
Foothill, who has shown to be Jekyll and Hyde a bit this year, is at No. 8 despite a couple of losses to unranked teams. Recent wins over Northgate and Carondelet assured that. Carondelet, San Ramon Valley, Northage, Deer Valley and Salesian at 9-13 seems to make sense, and in the bottom two spots, welcome in Mission San Jose and Washington. MSJ plays Irvington on Oct. 8, so that will clear some things up in the MVAL race, and Washington won a great match in five at Irvington on Oct. 1.
1. Bishop O’Dowd
2. Miramonte
3. Campolindo
4. Amador Valley
5. Albany
6. Granada
7. Moreau Catholic
8. Foothill
9. Carondelet
10. San Ramon Valley
11. Northgate
12. Deer Valley
13. Salesian
14. Mission San Jose
15. Washington
Others considered: Irvington, Acalanes, Berean Christian, Liberty, Heritage, California, Castro Valley, St. Patrick-St. Vincent, St. Mary’s, Alameda.
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Current Posts: 252
It looks about right. Although I think Moreau Catholic should have shown up at the Castro Valley Tourney.
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Current Posts: 3041
EAST BAY GIRLS VOLLEYBALL NOTEBOOK
By Matt Smith
Monday, October 12th, 2009
Rankings
We welcome California to the rankings this week. In recent matches the Grizzlies have beaten Foothill and San Ramon Valley and have earned the right to be here. I debated between Piedmont and San Ramon Valley for that final spot and just thought the Wolves might be struggling a bit, but the EBAL is brutal.
Northgate makes a jump to No. 8 this week as they continue to roll in the DVAL, while Mission San Jose and Washington both move up one spot and are representing the MVAL very well.
1. Bishop O’Dowd
2. Miramonte
3. Campolindo
4. Amador Valley
5. Albany
6. Granada
7. Foothill
8. Northgate
9. Carondelet
10. Moreau Catholic
11. Deer Valley
12. Mission San Jose
13. Washington
14. California
15. San Ramon Valley
Others considered: Piedmont, Irvington, Salesian, Berean Christian, Liberty, Heritage, Castro Valley, Acalanes, St. Patrick-St. Vincent, Alameda.
Joined: Sep 2006
Current Posts: 3041
EAST BAY GIRLS VOLLEYBALL NOTEBOOK
By Matt Smith
Monday, October 19th, 2009
Rankings
We welcome Piedmont into the rankings this week. The Highlanders have won 15 straight matches and handed Albany its first league loss and its first loss, period, in nearly a month. No other changes really, just Albany dropping two spots to No. 7 and Granada and Foothill each climbing one spot. I kept Mission San Jose one spot above Washington despite the Warriors loss to the Huskies in MVAL play. Mission got them back at the Dougherty Valley Tournament and have beaten them three of four times this year.
1. Bishop O’Dowd
2. Miramonte
3. Campolindo
4. Amador Valley
5. Granada
6. Foothill
7. Albany
8. Northgate
9. Carondelet
10. Moreau Catholic
11. Deer Valley
12. Piedmont
13. Mission San Jose
14. Washington
15. San Ramon Valley
Others considered: California, Irvington, Salesian, Berean Christian, Liberty, Heritage, Castro Valley, Acalanes, St. Patrick-St. Vincent, Berkeley.
Joined: Sep 2006
Current Posts: 3041
EAST BAY GIRLS VOLLEYBALL NOTEBOOK
By Matt Smith
Monday, October 26th, 2009
Rankings
A few small shifts. Amador Valley climbs to No. 3 as it continues an impressive unbeaten run through the East Bay Athletic League, and Carondelet’s recent surge has it at No. 7 this week. Berean Christian jumps back into the rankings after a win at Northgate, while two Mission Valley Athletic League teams hold on to the final two spots. Washington had an up and down performance at the Newark Tournament, and will have a chance to prove its ranking tomorrow when the Huskies face Irvington with a share of the league title on the line.
1. Bishop O’Dowd
2. Miramonte
3. Amador Valley
4. Campolindo
5. Granada
6. Foothill
7. Carondelet
8. Albany
9. Moreau Catholic
10. Northgate
11. Deer Valley
12. Piedmont
13. Berean Christian
14. Mission San Jose
15. Washington
Others considered: Irvington, San Ramon Valley, California, Salesian, Heritage, Liberty, Castro Valley, Acalanes, St. Patrick-St. Vincent, Berkeley.
League standings
ACCAL
Team League GB
Berkeley 9-0 -
Alameda 7-1 1.5
El Cerrito 6-3 3
De Anza 3-6 6
Pinole Valley 2-7 7
Hercules 2-7 7
Richmond 0-9 9
BSAL
Team League GB
Albany 15-1 -
St. Patrick-St. Vincent 13-3 2
Piedmont 12-3 2.5
Salesian 12-4 3
St. Mary’s 10-6 5
St. Joseph Notre Dame 7-9 8
Encinal 1-12 12.5
Swett 1-13 13
Kennedy-R 0-12 13
Holy Names 0-12 13
BVAL
Team League GB
Deer Valley 11-0 -
Liberty 8-3 3
Heritage 8-3 3
Freedom 3-8 8
Antioch 2-9 9
Pittsburg 0-11 11
DFAL
Team League GB
Miramonte 9-0 -
Campolindo 7-2 2
Acalanes 5-3 3.5
Las Lomas 5-4 4
Dublin 3-6 6
Dougherty Valley 2-7 7
Alhambra 0-9 9
DVAL
Team League GB
Northgate 8-1 -
Berean Christian 7-1 .5
Concord 6-3 2
Clayton Valley 5-3 2.5
College Park 2-6 5.5
Ygnacio Valley 1-7 6.5
Mt. Diablo 0-8 7.5
EBAL
Team League GB
Amador Valley 10-0 -
Granada 8-2 2
Foothill 7-3 3
Carondelet 7-3 3
California 4-6 6
San Ramon Valley 3-7 7
Monte Vista 1-9 9
Livermore 0-10 10
HAAL
Team League GB
Bishop O’Dowd 10-0 -
Moreau Catholic 8-2 2
Castro Valley 7-2 2.5
San Leandro 6-4 4
Arroyo 3-5 6
Hayward 1-5 7
Tennyson 0-6 8
San Lorenzo 0-6 8
Mt. Eden 0-6 8
MVAL
Team League GB
Washington 8-2 -
Mission San Jose 8-2 -
Irvington 8-2 -
Logan 6-4 2
Newark Memorial 3-7 5
American 3-8 5.5
Kennedy-F 0-11 8.5
Joined: Sep 2006
Current Posts: 3041
EAST BAY GIRLS VOLLEYBALL NOTEBOOK
By Matt Smith
Monday, November 2nd, 2009
With league’s wrapping with their last two matches or with league playoffs, the North Coast Section playoffs are on the horizon.
The NCS Division III playoffs will be very compelling, with five of the top nine teams in the Bay Area News Group’s East Bay volleyball rankings being D III teams.
Four of these five teams, along with a top flight D III team from Sonoma County were at the Northgate Tournament this week as Bishop O’Dowd, Miramonte, Campolindo, Moreau Catholic and Analy all took part.
And even though Analy won the tournament, topping Campolindo in the finals, it doesn’t necessarily make the Tigers the favorite. Analy has lost to Campolindo in a non-league match, and Analy has lost to Granada in tournament play. Miramonte has beat Campolindo twice and has beat Granada. Campolindo, however, exacted a little revenge and beat the Matadors in the semifinals at Northgate on Saturday.
Got that straight?
Then you throw in top-ranked Bishop O’Dowd, who lost to Analy in the semifinals. The Dragons have split with Campolindo this year, haven’t played Miramonte but have some very impressive wins over St. Mary’-Stockton, Sacred Heart Cathedral and St. Francis-Sacramento.
“Division III is loaded with talent,” Bishop O’Dowd coach Mike Gee said. “Things are always changing. One week team A will beat team B, and the next it will be the other way around. I’m extremely excited for this year’s NCS. It’s going to make for a lot of great volleyball for everyone.”
Bishop O’Dowd ends the weekend at 29-8, and has to feel like it has a claim to the No. 1 seed. But Miramonte, at 22-2, probably feels the same way.
“I think the final four teams at the Northgate Tournament will be the top four teams in Division III,” Miramonte coach Shannon Ross said. “It’s going to get very interesting because all four are great volleyball teams and only two can make it to the finals and move on to NorCal.”
Campolindo, led by coach Scott Bishop, may also have a claim to the top seed, and he knows that the four teams will end up seeded one through four, but in which order is anybody’s guess at this point.
A highly ranked Division III team, Albany, was at the Edison Tournament in Stockton and went 4-0, winning the tournament.
The Division I favorite, Amador Valley, won a pair of matches in East Bay Athletic League play last week to stay perfect, winning one of those against Division II hopeful Carondelet.
Northgate, another top D II team, went 3-1 at its own tournament.
Rankings
The Northgate Tournament made things a little difficult with the rankings this week, but I decided to leave them as is. Miramonte is 2-1 agaisnt Campolindo, so I didn’t think a shift was in order. The playoffs will sort it all out.
Carondelet is playing well, and creeps up to No. 5 as the Cougars have emerged as perhaps the team to beat in D II.
1. Bishop O’Dowd
2. Miramonte
3. Amador Valley
4. Campolindo
5. Carondelet
6. Granada
7. Foothill
8. Albany
9. Moreau Catholic
10. Northgate
11. Deer Valley
12. Mission San Jose
13. Washington
14. Piedmont
15. Berean Christian
Others considered: Irvington, St. Patrick-St. Vincent, Salesian, San Ramon Valley, California, Heritage, Liberty, Castro Valley, St. Mary’s, Berkeley.
Joined: Sep 2006
Current Posts: 3041
EAST BAY GIRLS VOLLEYBALL NOTEBOOK
PLAYOFF BRACKETS
By Matt Smith
Sunday, November 8th, 2009
For the first time, the North Coast Section volleyball playoffs have gone to a closed-door committee instead of a seeding meeting, and the brackets have been announced. Let’s take a look at each division, which have been opened up to 16 teams this year.
Division I
The top seed in this division was merely academic as Amador Valley dominated Division I in the East Bay all year long. The Dons are the clearcut favorite. After Amador Valley, it gets interesting and very competitive with East Bay Athletic League runner-up Granada earning the No. 2 seed, and deservedly so. The Matadors went 21-6 and were the second best team behind the Dons all year in D I.
Wednesday, Nov. 11
First Round
No. 4 Mission San Jose v. No. 13 Berkeley
No. 5 Deer Valley v. No. 12 San Leandro
No. 6 Washington v. No. 11 Logan
No. 7 Irvington v. No. 10 Liberty
No. 8 Heritage v. No. 9 Castro Valley
Saturday, Nov. 14
Quarterfinals
No. 1 Amador Valley v. TBA
No. 2 Granada v. TBA
No. 3 Foothill v. TBA
Division II
Carondelet is the East Bay’s highest seeded team in Division II, earning the No. 3 seed, but the tough schedule and playing in the East Bay Athletic League wasn’t enough to earn one of the top two seeds. The honors went to No. 1 Petaluma and No. 2 Redwood. Northgate earned the No. 4 seed and will join Carondelet with a first-round bye. Another Diablo Valley Athletic League team, Concord, earns the No. 8 seed while Las Lomas is No. 10 and Alameda is No. 11.
Wednesday, Nov. 11
First Round
No. 5 Maria Carrillo v. No. 12 Eureka
No. 6 Windsor v. No. 11 Alameda
No. 7 Rancho Cotate v. No. 10 Las Lomas
No. 8 Concord v. No. 9 Ukiah
Saturday, Nov. 14
Quarterfinals
No. 1 Petaluma v. TBA
No. 2 Redwood v. TBA
No. 3 Carondelet v. TBA
No. 4 Northgate v. TBA
Division III
In the most compelling and competitive division in the NCS, D III features four of the top teams in Northern California. The four of them earned the top seeds, with last year’s No. 1 seed and runner-up, Miramonte, earning the top seed again. “I’m extremely excited and I’m so, so proud of my girls,” Miramonte coach Shannon Ross said. “The NCS seeds us No. 1 so they obviously see something in us that they like, and I hope this is the motivation to go all the way. I hope we can finish this year and I really think this team can do it.” Miramonte went 25-2, but Bishop O’Dowd might be considered the favorite by many after going 32-8 and playing a very, very strong schedule. “I’m really focused on the state playoffs and I put this schedule together in preparation for state,” Bishop O’Dowd coach Mike Gee said. “I know looking ahead is dangerous because the NCS is going to be very tough.” But the Dragons earned the No. 3 seed after losing to Analy in the semi-finals of the Northgate Tournament. Analy earns the No. 2 seed, it seems by virtue of this win. This would setup a potential semi-final matchup, but Bishop O’Dowd will have to travel to Sebastopol. “If we’re going to be a top team, we need to be capable of winning at home or away,” Gee said. “Playing on the road or at home doesn’t matter. We’ve traveled a lot this year and we’re gonna be battle tested.”
Campolindo earns the No. 4 seed, setting up a potential fourth matchup between the Cougars and rival Miramonte. The Matadors went 2-1 against Campolindo, winning both league matches and losing at the Northgate Tournament. Albany and Moreau Catholic, both top ten teams in the Bay Area News Group’s Volleyball Rankings, were seeded No. 6 and No. 7, respectively. Acalanes, a tough team when things are clicking, earns the No. 10 seed with El Cerrito earning the No. 13 seed.
Wednesday, Nov. 11
First Round
No. 4 Campolindo v. No. 13 El Cerrito
No. 5 Drake v. No. 12 Del Norte
No. 6 Albany v. No. 11 El Molino
No. 7 Moreau Catholic v. No. 10 Acalanes
No. 8 Sonoma Valley v. No. 9 Terra Linda
Saturday, Nov. 14
Quarterfinals
No. 1 Miramonte v. TBA
No. 2 Analy v. TBA
No. 3 Bishop O’Dowd v. TBA
Division IV
The Salesian Pride earn the No. 2 seed after their march to the Bay Shore Athletic League Tournament title. The team they beat, St. Patrick-St. Vincent, earns the No. 3 seed. The BSAL is well-represented with Piedmont getting the No. 4 seed and St. Mary’s getting the No. 7 seed. Berean Christian, after winning a one-game playoff against Northgate to win the Diablo Valley Athletic League’s automatic bid (they shared the league title) earns the No. 5 seed. The Eagles split with St. Patrick-St. Vincent this year and lost to Salesian twice.
Wednesday, Nov. 11
First Round
No. 3 St. Patrick-St. Vincent v. McKinleyville
No. 4 Piedmont v. No. 13 Clear Lake
No. 5 Berean Christian v. No. 12 Ursuline
No. 6 St. Helena v. No. 11 Kelseyville
No. 7 St. Mary’s v. No. 10 Healdsburg
No. 8 Lick-Wilmerding v. No. 9 Willits
Saturday, Nov. 14
Quarterfinals
No. 1 Marin Catholic v. TBA
No. 2 Salesian v. TBA
Division V
The Bay Counties League East is well represented in Division V with Valley Christian earning the highest seed at No. 4, and a first-round bye. Redwood Christian, Head-Royce, College Prep and Bentley will all get home matches in the first round on Wednesday.
Wednesday, Nov. 11
First Round
No. 5 Redwood Christian v. No. 12 Roseland University Prep-Santa Rosa
No. 6 Head-Royce v. No. 11 Hoopa Valley
No. 7 College Prep v. No. 10 Fremont Christian
No. 8 Bentley v. No. 9 Bay School-San Francisco
Saturday, Nov. 14
Quarterfinals
No. 1 Branson v. TBA
No. 2 Marin Academy v. TBA
No. 3 University-San Francisco v. TBA
No. 4 Valley Christian v. TBA
Division VI
A pair of Bay Counties League East teams make the Division VI playoffs, with Contra Costa Christian earning a bye and the No. 5 seed, meanwhile Chinese Christian earns the No. 11 seed and faces Southern Trinity-Bridgeville.
Wednesday, Nov. 11
First Round
No. 6 Southern Trinity v. No. 11 Chinese Christian
No. 7 Mendocino v. No. 10 Tomales
No. 8 Pescadero v. No. 9 Rio Lindo Adventist
Saturday, Nov. 14
Quarterfinals
No. 1 Rincon Valley Christian v. TBA
No. 2 Anderson Valley v. TBA
No. 3 Pacific Union Prep v. TBA
No. 4 San Francisco Waldorf v. No. 5 Contra Costa Christian
Rankings
Here are the rankings entering the playoffs.
1. Bishop O’Dowd
2. Miramonte
3. Amador Valley
4. Campolindo
5. Carondelet
6. Granada
7. Foothill
8. Deer Valley
9. Albany
10. Moreau Catholic
11. Mission San Jose
12. Salesian
13. Berean Christian
14. Northgate
15. Irvington
Others considered: Castro Valley, Washington, St. Patrick-St. Vincent, Piedmont, Heritage, Liberty, San Ramon Valley, St. Mary’s, Berkeley, Acalanes.
Joined: Jun 2006
Current Posts: 252
I would like to extend congratulations to Lou Panzella, coach of Deer Valley HS girl's varsity volleyball , for receiving NCS Coach of the Year honors. Well deserved.
Joined: Sep 2006
Current Posts: 3041
The only real upset thus far tonight is #10 Liberty knocking off #7 Irvington 25-16, 25-18, 20-25, 25-10 in D1 action. No other #10 seeds or higher have won in any divisions with just a couple of matches left to report.
Joined: Sep 2006
Current Posts: 3041
In looking back at my predictions from August in one of the first posts on this thread, I predicted the following:
"I'll take a stab at the EBAL for this season. If pushed, I would have to go with AV and Granada to battle for the first two spots, Foothill and Carondelet volley for 3-4, Cal & SRV scrap for 6-7, while MV and Livermore fight it out for the last two spots."
While I typo'd and put Cal-SRV as 6-7 rather than 5-6, it was about as close as could be called. Final EBAL Standings:
1) AV 14-0 *
2) Granada 11-3
3) Carondelet 10-4
4) Foothill 8-6
5/6 tie) Cal 5-9
5/6 tie) SRV 5-9
7) MV 2-12
8) Livermore 1-13
Joined: Sep 2006
Current Posts: 3041
Some great NCS volleyball action tonight.
Campo was destroyed by Drake 25-14, 25-16, 25-18, so Drake will be at Miramonte on Weds. for a D3 semifinal matchup, while BOD travels to Analy.
In D2 #5 Maria Carillo knocked off #4 seed Northgate 25-19, 25-22, 25-19 and will face Petaluma, while Carondelet travels to Redwood.
D1 saw Amador take apart Heritage 25-20, 25-11, 25-14, and will host Deer Valley, winners of a huge comeback victory at Mission San Jose tonight 20-25, 25-17, 27-25, 25-22. After splitting the 1st 2 games, DV was down 9-1 and 20-12 in game 3, but came storming back to win 27-25 and took the momentum from the home squad. Great effort by DV. On the other side of the D1 bracket, #2 Granada squeezed by #10 Liberty in 3 games 25-21, 25-22, 25-21, and host #3 Foothill won a marathon match against #6 Washington 15-25, 25-17, 25-23, 16-25, 16-14.
Joined: Jun 2006
Current Posts: 252
Yes 001 it was a good night for volleyball. I watched Foothill/Washington and I'm not sure how FHS pulled that one out. I don't know why WHS didn't win their league. This team has to run hot and cold or something because tonight they started out looking like one of the top teams in the bay area. Their hitters were killing it and it looked like they were going to make short work of FHS but FHS just did what they do this year and make the points they needed to make. The match wasn't decided until FHS was able to get the last one down. Very good match.
I don't know if WHS will be returning most of their players but if they do, watch out, they will be a team to be reckoned with. Regardless, they have put together a nice program there.
Joined: Sep 2006
Current Posts: 3041
Andy, Deer Valley has their work cut out for them against #1 seed Amador Valley on Wednesday. Amador will be a heavy favorite. However, if they can get by AV, they'll face the winner of the #2 Granada-#3 Foothill match.
Mr. T, I almost went to the Foothill-Washington match tonight, but decided to see DV-MSJ instead. It was a great match, but it sounds like the match in Pleasanton was even more exciting. I have seen Washington play, and they do have a good team, even if they hadn't got that 6'3" transfer (Yokoyama) this season from Japan. But MSJ is also a good team and their fantastic outside hitter Kayla Ma #9 is just a beast. MSJ has won the MVAL two years in a row and had their entire starting lineup back this year, so they had a lot of experience that Washington didn't. But Yokoyama is just a junior and Ma graduates, so Washington may be the team to beat in that league in 2010.
MSJ clearly had the best player on the court tonight in Ma, but DV won because they have a better overall team, better coaching in Lou and the team has heart. It would have been easy for them to fold when down 9-1 or 20-12, but they perservered and battled it out. DV travelled well all the way out to Fremont, with just as many or more fans in the stands as MSJ to root on their girls.
Joined: Dec 2006
Current Posts: 142
001:
Thanks for the updates.
I'm pulling for the local teams (East County). Sorry to see Liberty's Coach Gooch not win another NCS championship, but, we've still got DV alive.
Andy
_______________________________________________________________
This space for rent
Joined: Aug 2009
Current Posts: 42
Coachmikegee...who was the server??? parrott or knox? our backrow would appreciate a little insight.
I also agree with McHugh...it was earned!!
Joined: Sep 2008
Current Posts: 16
It was Sarah Knox.
I don't know where this serve came from. The past week she's just been dialed in. All I can say is that when her serve gets hot, it's extremely difficult to pass. We all have trouble with it when we play doubles or triples in practice.
And yes, Campo definitely earned game one. It's just more fun to write "steal."
Joined: Aug 2009
Current Posts: 42
Tell Sarah we (especially sandra) will be waiting for her next time. However, congrats to her as her 7-0 run changed game two's momentum and even perhaps your teams outcome for the day.
Northgate Tourney is around the corner...cya there.
Joined: Oct 2008
Current Posts: 10
Cal beat SRV tonight in 5 games,
what are the other outcomes of tonight?
Joined: Sep 2006
Current Posts: 3041
EBAL
Cal over SRV in 5
MV over Livermore in 5
Granada over Foothill in 4
Amador over Carondelet in 4
Thursday has Amador and Granada hooking up in a battle royale for EBAL supremacy as each come in undefeated in league play at 5-0. Surprising Cal now has wins over 3 top 10 teams (Moreau, Foothill & SRV), is 3-2 and plays 0-5 Livermore, 1-4 MV squeeked by spirited Livermore in 5 last night after surrendering the first 2 games to earn their first league win, and will play 2-3 Carondelet, and 1-4 SRV faces 3-2 Foothill which should also be a great match.
Joined: Aug 2009
Current Posts: 42
Who's got the scores and highlights from last night??
Lets hear it.
Joined: Sep 2006
Current Posts: 3041
Amador over Granada in 3
Foothill over SRV in 4
Cal over Livermore in 3
Carondelet over MV in 4
BOD over Moreau in 3
EBAL standngs as of today, and the last game remaining for the completion of the first half of EBAL league play on Tuesday:
Amador Valley 6-0 (Foothill)
Granada 5-1 (Livermore)
Cal 4-2 (Carondelet)
Foothill 4-2 (AV)
Carondelet 3-3 (Cal)
SRV 1-5 (MV)
MV 1-5 (SRV)
Livermore 0-6 (Granada)
Joined: Sep 2009
Current Posts: 8
Amador played a great match defeating Granada in 3. 25-13 25-17 29-27. Amador did not make very many mistakes and answered on every point. Game 1 Rachel Kinnardserved 10 straight points in game 1 to go up 11-1. It was tough for Granada to recover after that. They had trouble passing and putting balls away. Game 2 was a better fight from Granada but not enough. Game 3 was a battle the entire time. Granada had game point at 24-22 and ending up loosing 29-27. Great play by Amador, they were the better team last night.
Joined: Apr 2007
Current Posts: 18
Watched Amador play against Carondolet on Tuesday and Nikki Baker was everywhere. She may not be the biggest player but she plays at a different speed. Best player in the EBAL in my opinion. What sets her apart is her great defence and hitting while in the back row.
Joined: Sep 2006
Current Posts: 3041
I agree. Nikki has always been a solid player, but she is really getting high up in the air this year and has a burst of quickness. She is just literally on another level than the rest of the league. Fun to watch. Amador has a good one there. She gets my vote for first half MVP.
Joined: Jun 2006
Current Posts: 252
I have the hardest time distinguishing between Nikki Baker and Katie Osborne of Granada. They both can get up, hit and cover a lot of court. Katie needs to get props too. MVP voting should be tight this year.
Joined: Sep 2006
Current Posts: 3041
Good point Mr. T. Katie is right up there with Nikki. Neither looks very imposing until you see them in action, and then they are both very impressive. While watching Amador play, I hear a lot of spectators gasping at how athletic Nikki is, but I don't get the same vibe from the crowd about Katie, for whatever reason. They are both amazing. I'll give the first half edge to Nikki if only because Amador won the head to head battle and will likely be the first place team in league. Unless of course Katie leads the Mats to an 8-0 run to finish the season.
Is Kory Lamet playing this year for Carondelet? I thought she was supposed to be a senior this year?
Joined: Dec 2008
Current Posts: 7
agree give first half to Nikki just slightly.
Kory Lamet is an outstanding soccer player and had to make a choice this season, she is only a junior this year so she may be back next season, who knows.
Joined: Sep 2009
Current Posts: 7
Hands down, Nikki MVP 1st half....Not even close. No comment on Dewitt from Foothill? Absolute cannon!!! And no mention of Grace for MVP? It's not all about # of kills.
Joined: Sep 2009
Current Posts: 8
Let's not forget about Devin Shaver from Granada. She is a great all around player and I bet she will do some serious damage 2nd half of league. Nikki is awesome too. Two different type of players...
Joined: Sep 2009
Current Posts: 7
Great point... There are many very good players in the EBAL. From what I have seen of this player...very poised and crafty. She can hit, set and block. I see her being a very good college player.
Joined: Jun 2006
Current Posts: 252
I agree with everything that has been said about these players. One thing I will say is that I really haven't seen the one player this year with that "wow" factor and ability to single -handedly carry their team to the top but there are quite a few sturdy no frills types who get the job done and are excellent teammates on very good teams. Making this years version of girl's volleyball in Norcal quite interesting and somewhat unpredictable.
Joined: Oct 2009
Current Posts: 2
Agreed that there are many good players in EBAL. Meghan Cooney from Carondelet should also be included in the MVP discussion. An impact player for her team both offensively and defensively....strong hitter that can block and pass with efficiency. Smart player with excellent court sense that will help her be successful at the college level.
Joined: Aug 2009
Current Posts: 42
As noted above, there seems no one stand-out in the east bay at this point.
as such, those who are considered candidates should have their stats posted by their coaches to give the public some idea how they compare to others.
Sometimes the MVP(s) are the player(s) you least expect...especially when you have a senior and junior class as deep in talent as is the case at present.
Case in point, the top five teams in the east bay have rosters sooo deep with talent that the list of MVP candidates could get quite long. Comparing stats would go a long way towards making a short list of true MVP candidates.
Joined: Oct 2009
Current Posts: 2
What vball novice has noted is so very true and couldn't agree more. Volleyball is a team sport and one or two players should not have to "carry" the team. Sometimes the MVP(s) are the player(s) you least expect...the ones that play offense and defense consistently game to game, the ones that keep the ball in play and make few mistakes, and most importantly, the ones that empower their teammates to play at their highest level.
Alot of very exciting volleyball happening in the east bay right now.
Joined: Apr 2007
Current Posts: 18
When I posted my opinion about Nikki Baker I really was commenting how she was rarely mentioned on this board. The other player I was impressed with is DeWitt from Foothill. I saw Granada play last year and thought they had several players who played well without one really standing out. I need to get in the gym and watch Granada play a match. MVP is not always the best player but the leader of the best team, although often they are the one and the same.Still Baker has been the best all around player I have seen.
Joined: Nov 2008
Current Posts: 12
A given year's MVP choice, is not necessarily the leader of the best team. (Although it often happens that way) A team with the best record often achieves that record with good play from entire team. That good play then enables a stand out player to excel (Good passing begets, a good set, allowing a well practiced, in system, play). Doesn't mean that same player would lead another team to same record, or enjoy same success on a team with less talent at other 5 positions.
IMHO an MVP choice could also be a player whose contribution elevated their team to a level they never would have achieved w/o her. Last year Cal was not necessarily the best team in league, yet Kordic's play earned her the MVP. If Cal had one or two stronger players at certain positions, then it may have been leader of best team winning MVP.
Joined: Sep 2009
Current Posts: 8
Last year the MVP went to Sydney Kordic from Cal, who finished 4th in league. It's not always a kid from the best team, but a girl who is the best player. In my opinion we have 3 standout players in our league Nikki Baker, Caitlin Dewitt and Devin Shaver.
Joined: Sep 2006
Current Posts: 3041
Last year there was no one dominant player on a dominant team. SRV was the best team, but they had a handful of really good players who played well together. Granada also had a handful of really good players who played well together. Cal beat (and lost to) both SRV and Granada last year, and largely due to Sydney's play. Amador may not lose in league this year. If I remember correctly, SRV lost two matches during the season last year, both in the first half, and Granada lost 3 or 4? The league was well balanced.
MVP is always a tough award to quantify. Whether it is the best player on the best team, the player that most helps her team, or the most dominant player. I would take any of the girls mentioned: Grace Vickers, Nikki Baker, Caitlin Dewitt, Katie Osborne, Meghan Cooney, or Devin Shaver on my team any day. Girls like them make the game fun to watch.
Joined: Apr 2007
Current Posts: 18
Tonight CHS is playing at Granada so I will get a chance to see Granada play. I remember K. Osbourne from last year and she seems to make great reads on defense she makes it look easy at times. Also Devin Shaver played out side last year and I heard she is setting this year. Go Cougers!!!!
Joined: Dec 2008
Current Posts: 7
Will CHS be at full strength tonite? I heard they have a a couple key players out the last few weeks. Saw them play Cal, but still had some girls out....however they seem to be playing better and more consistant as the season has progressed. I look forward to a well played match and and wouldn't count them out.
Joined: Oct 2008
Current Posts: 3
CHS (Carondelet not Cal High) has been missing a few key players for several weeks now (their libero and an OH). The OH saw her first, limited action last night against Granada and hopes to be getting back in the groove for the remainder of the season. Not sure about the status of their libero.
Joined: Sep 2006
Current Posts: 3041
That was a great win for Carondelet last night vs. Granada. If they can get some revenge on Foothill the 2nd time through league, they should be able to take 3rd place. Carondelet, Foothill, and Cal all split with each other in round 1 and they were in a 3-way tie for 3-5 at 4-3 heading into the 2nd round. They are much improved overlast year's team, even without Kory Lamet, and should be a factor at NCS. I wouldn't put too much emphasis on players missing with injuries, as all teams are going through this during the season.
AV is still the team to beat with 5 league matches remaining, and though they will be tested by both Carondelet and Granada I don't see them losing. Still have Nikki Baker penciled in for my EBAL MVP, but Cooney is closing in.
Joined: Apr 2007
Current Posts: 18
Meghan Cooney has really stepped it up with her defense and it has made an impact on her team. She had a great match last night and was the key to their win. She made alot of defensive plays and had some big kills. I thought her defense was her weak spot but she is playing with great court awareness right now. She is one of the contenders for MVP with her hard play and all around skills.
Joined: Aug 2009
Current Posts: 42
Tonights rematch should be the game of the week.
Campo is at home and needs to redeem itself from a 3-0 loss at Mira earlier this month.
If Campo plays their "A" game it will be a battle they should win.
Cya there.
Joined: Sep 2008
Current Posts: 18
I've seen most of these candidates play in club for the last two years and agree that they all stand out from this years' high school crowd. Nicole Baker is probably the most spectacular of them all with her aggressive serving, back row hitting, and her amazing variety of shots from her outside hitting position. I think Osbourne is the best athlete of this group with her strength and explosiveness and Vickers is hands down the best middle in the east bay (sorry Andrea). I think Devin Shaver will probably be the best college player of this crop of seniors though. She does everything well and has the height that will make her competitive in a strong program.
My prediction for next years' CC Times player of the year for girls' volleyball will be Lindsey Parrott of O'Dowd... IF they run a 6-2 next year she'll be able to show off all her skills; hitting, blocking, and setting.
Joined: Aug 2009
Current Posts: 42
Don't count out a number of the smaller, game-changers in the east bay. Campo and BOD (as well a few other teams) have the best libero's in the area who's performance can impact their teams chemistry. Sure, they don't hit, set or block, but without them the team would in most cases be unable to use their killer offense.
Regarding next years player of the year, I would agree, but add that BOD also has two other outstanding candidates in juniors Lynch (OH) and Pehanick(sp?) (MH). If anyone out there thinks BOD's loss of seven seniors (5 starting this year) next year will slow them down...I wouldn't hold your breath.
Personally I hope Campo can get back to DIV 2 next year...this DIV 3 thing is brutal.
Joined: Sep 2009
Current Posts: 5
Well vbnovice, I've read the posts all season. In the first meeting the post read that Campo was "overconfident". The post recently said if Campo brought their "A" game it was a match they should win. Care to try to find another reason why Miramonte won again? The Northgate tournament and the NCS playoffs will be a real battle, but vball novice please give Miramonte their due just once ;-) Enjoy the games all.
Joined: Aug 2009
Current Posts: 42
vbfan, I thought, as many did, Mira would be slowed by the loss of last years seniors and head coach. Hence, why I felt Campo was the better team. I/We have been proven wrong.
In watching the game last evening, it is clear Julianna is at least half Mira's offense and defense. Campo just has no answer for her. I was also further impressed with mira's libero, don't know her name...but she came to play last night.
Oh, and what was up with Mira's second setter (#1), she has a rather bad attitude...kicking the ball in anger and yelling in anger at her own team mates. (down girl!!) She also tried to argue a back-court attack call, when she (as a back row setter) attacked an over-pass. (Hello?)
If Campo is to compete for the NCS title, they have some work cut-out for themselves.
Last year BOD was able to control and limit Julianna's impact during the NCS finals. Campo better find that same key, or their NCS trip will be short.
cya next weekend.
Joined: Sep 2009
Current Posts: 7
I got to the match late, mid 1st game. What a rocking gym!! Great match. Less errors were the key. Props to Miramonte. Well coached. I would advise Miramonte coach to tone down her players. Attitude is good when channeled right. I saw and heard alot of foul langauge coming from several key Matador players. This could hurt them in furture tight games. They are too good of a team to be penalized by poor behavior. It will be a fun NCS to watch!!
Joined: Oct 2008
Current Posts: 3
Isn't interesting how teams tend to reflect their coach? It's true in virtually all sports, not just volleyball. Let's hope that cooler heads prevail and -- you're right -- good attitude is channeled the right way as pure, respectful competition on and off the court.
Joined: Sep 2009
Current Posts: 5
It really was a good match between two good teams. If they do meet again I am sure it will be just as good and could go either way. As to coaching "styles" it was definately a contrast and anyone who understands sports knows that is the case many times. There is no particular style that is the gold standard for how to coach. As a coach you also have to know your team and what will and will not work with that particular group. I would certainly not ask the Miramonte coach to curb her enthusiasm (which obviously works for her team) just as I would not ask the Campo coach to outwardly cheer enthusiasticaly for his team (and his style has worked for him over the years). Knowing many of the parents and others who know the Mira coach they appreciate her energy and passion as does her team. She certainly did not invent this style. Knowing many on the Campo side I know they appreciate the way their coach coaches as well. He did not invent this style. I also know that the Mira coach is aware of the language "issue" last night and is not condoning it at all. D3 NCS is probably the most competitve of all the divisions as far as top tier teams. It's going to be a battle that will be fun to watch.
Joined: Oct 2009
Current Posts: 2
vbfan - you are right on with your comments. The thing is that the Miramonte coach is doing a hell of a job in her first year. Holding a league winning team together after losing their coach and having them contine to succeed is a tough job. It's pretty obvious that this coach is the real deal. A volleyball team is so much the sum of all it's parts and Miramonte's coach seems to be quite proficient at creating an environment where all those parts can succeed.
Joined: Sep 2009
Current Posts: 7
Great to hear from the Matador "Homers". All good vibes to the new coach. Beware...the refs know of the "issues" and will be watching. Like I said, the Matadors are too good to be dinged by over zealous words. I love the coach's style. Let it roll!!
Joined: Aug 2009
Current Posts: 42
There is a big difference between competitive enthusiasm/zeal and unsportsman-like-conduct. It would be my position that a number of Mira's players clearly stepped WAY over that line on Thursday...and from what I hear off-line...this is a regular occurance. There is no place in High School Sports for this, and the ref's should have zero tolerance for it.
As to Mira's coach...what little experience I have... I say be fore warned....unsportsman-like-players can be especially poisonous to their own team....Terrel Owens (TO) is a perfect example.
Let's hope we see none of this at the Northgate Tourney.
Joined: Sep 2009
Current Posts: 5
As I said Novice, she is aware of the issues, does not condone them and has addressed them. It is not a regular occurance however. No one is condoning the issue at hand, but Thursday night was an emotional night. It's being dealt with. I will tell you though that Mira is definately a "team" so this is not ripping the team asunder. By the way, I am not lessing your point, but have you ever stood on the sidelines of a high school football game? You might want to bring your earplugs.
McHugh, thanks for the post. "Homers" ?? This whole blog is made up of "Homers" lol ;-)
Joined: Aug 2009
Current Posts: 42
VBfan,
First, congrats to the Mira coach...hellofa job to keep the program competitive.
Not knowing her, it would be sad to see her caught up in an ugly situation of unsportsman like conduct and player ejections that could shorten her career as Mira's coach.
Miramonte as a whole has been ROCKED recently by some very questionable acts by members of the student body and facility that have made local headlines. I would hope their Vball team would not be a reflection of those headlines.
As a parent and fan of Vball, I enjoy the sport because it is NOT a contact sport, nor does it have the BS associated with contact sports. Further, we as parents should demand the highest possible standard of conduct at all levels and types of sports. I for one, do not send my kids to school or club sports to be taught how to desrespect competitors or team mates. I suspect I'm not alone in that position.
Joined: Sep 2009
Current Posts: 5
vballnovice ... I'm speechless. The mean spiritedness of your last post boggles me. To reference or to even remotely tie the tragic incidents of the past year at Miramonte to a discussion about volleyball is just unimagineable. To also suggest that the kids are being "taught" to disrespect is also way beyond truthfulness or reality. I'm stunned ..... and off this blog.
Joined: Aug 2009
Current Posts: 42
vbfan,
My apogolizes...my comments were meant to be frank, but in no way mean spirited!
Recent events clearly are a very sensitive subject for you.
I was simply hoping for the sake of Mira's coach, players, parents and fans that the team would reflect the highest standard of sportsmanship and champion Miramonte High School with an image far different then what has made recent headlines.
Honestly, I don't feel it's the coach's sole responsibility...we as fans and parents share some responsibilty in asking (or maybe demanding) that ref's enforce sportsmanship rules promptly and that our kids are leaders on and off court.
Joined: Oct 2008
Current Posts: 3
Foothill and Carondelet battled for 5 games last night with the Cougars eventually coming out on top. Kind of a strange match as both teams on either side of the net either played well or kind of fell apart during any one game. CHS won a squeaker in the first game, coming from behind (25-22); Foothill blew out CHS in the second game (14-25); CHS won another close one in the third (30-28); Foothill then thumped CHS in the fourth (18-25); and CHS finally blew out Foothill in the fifth and deciding game (15-5).
Caitlin Dewitt had another outstanding game for Foothill. She seemed a little frustrated in the final game and then got hurt, but it didn't seem too serious as she continued to play. Let's hope it's nothing serious as she is truly an amazing player.
Joined: Jun 2006
Current Posts: 252
I agree, it was a good game. If both teams develop some consistency, they will be dangerous in the playoffs.
Joined: Aug 2009
Current Posts: 42
Anyone have details...pools and/or locations?
Can't seem to find it on Northgate's Site.
Joined: Dec 2008
Current Posts: 7
Yes if consistent I def see either one of those two teams going far in playoff picture. It looks like Carondelet is peaking at the right time. I believe they play amador tonite, will be a big test but win or lose they are sitting pretty. Good luck to all tonite!
Joined: Oct 2009
Current Posts: 1
I too got a chance to watch the Carondelet/ Foothill teams play. While both Cooney and Dewitt are great players, I did not feel that either one of them pulled off the win for their teams. Dewitt is the clear powerhouse for her team and I see her in the MVP slot next year as her hitting is spectacular and her passing is great to. I think with time she will hold up better to the pressure and pull off those wins at the end. Foothill is definitely a team to watch for next year. Carondelet is also pretty packed with talent for next year. While Cooney played very well in the match, Carondelet pulled off that win with great hitting from the middles, right sides, outsides and consistent setting... their defense looks better all around, but could use some work. I still have to give my vote to Baker for MVP. When things are tough, she pulls through with some of the best digs I have ever seen, along with great hitting. She is the complete package of what an MVP is... she pulls her team up when they are down by combining great skills with heart.... at least thats what it looks like from the outside. Shaver of Granada gets my second vote as she plays consistently and looks calm throughout the whole process. I put her in second because I believe MVP is the player that elevates their team to great wins and I do not feel like Granada is pulling through as well as they could right now.. so that could change if they beat Amador etc.
Joined: Sep 2006
Current Posts: 3041
Amador is sitting pretty right now at 11-0 in the always tough EBAL. However, their toughest stretch kicks in tonight as they close the season against hard charging 8-3 Carondelet tonight (winners of 6 in a row), then end with 9-2 Granada and 7-4 Foothill next week. Playing teams of that caliber late in the season should get them ready for the NCS playoffs.
Joined: Jun 2006
Current Posts: 252
Although I felt AV would win league, I didn't think they could pull off going unbeaten. I still don't think it will happen but who's to say? Good luck to them.
Joined: Aug 2009
Current Posts: 42
Well, Campo finally found the key to beating Miramonte, only to then lose in two to Analy in the Championship match. Analy beat BOD in three in the semi's to get to the final match. Analy's victory will make for an interesting NCS Seatings meeting.
Joined: Sep 2008
Current Posts: 18
Saw AV crush Granada last night. Thought I saw six players on AV that were taller than anyone on the Granada squad, and yet... Granada almost won the first two games. Looked like AV let down in game 2 and Granada ran out of gas after that. Granada didn't really have anyone that could put the ball away or block.
Having all that senior talent is really paying off for AV and Granada. Maybe they'll meet again.
Joined: Sep 2006
Current Posts: 3041
AV bested Granada and is down to just 1 match left against Foothill for the undefeated EBAL regular season. Carondelet keeps rolling and took out MV in 3 games as expected, while Foothill did the same with SRV. The real shocker came in Livermore where the Lady Cowboys dug deep and came up with their first win of the season, stunning Cal 3-1. Irvington and MSJ will battle for the MVAL playoff title.
From today's Times, some actual volleyball coverage in print:
Girls volleyball
Amador Valley d. Granada: Behind 59 assists from setter Kelsey Williams and 28 kills from hitter Nikki Baker, the Dons clinched the EBAL title with a 31-29, 21-25, 25-16, 25-14 win over the visiting Matadors.
Granada (20-6, 10-3 EBAL) made it tough for the first two games, but Amador Valley (25-7, 13-0) kept its perfect league record intact by dominating late.
"I felt like we started a little shaky because we were very pumped up for this match and maybe a little nervous," Baker said. "We knew Granada was going to be a tough challenge, but we settled in and finished strong."
Granada used 21 assists, 13 digs, six blocks and five kills from Devin Shaver to give the Dons their toughest league test of the season.
"They definitely made some errors that helped us out in games one and two," Granada coach Toni Templeman said. "That normally doesn't happen with them. They played better in the last two games and for us, our passing broke down."
— Matt Smith, correspondent
MVAL tournament: Katie Lopez had another outstanding match as No. 3 seed Irvington rallied late in the first two games en route to a 26-24, 25-22, 25-17 win over No. 2 Washington in the semifinals of the Mission Valley Athletic League playoffs at Mission San Jose.
Trailing 24-22 in Game 1, the Vikings (17-8) earned the last four points to prevail 26-24. Irvington trailed in the second game 21-18 before scoring seven of the last eight points to take a 2-0 advantage.
Lopez finished with a game-high 20 kills and added five digs, three blocks and two aces.
Konami Yokoyama had 10 kills, five blocks and three aces to lead the Huskies.
In the other semifinal, Alison Day had six kills and 14 digs as top-seeded Mission San Jose rolled to a 25-14, 25-18, 25-14 win over No. 4 James Logan.
Mission San Jose will host Irvington in the finals Thursday at 7 p.m. The teams split their season series, but the Vikings need to beat the Warriors twice to win the MVAL title and the automatic berth to the NCS playoffs.
Keila Mah added six more kills to go along with nine digs and two blocks for the Warriors.
Mimi Lu finished with a team-high five kills, while Camille De Leon added five digs and two aces for the Colts.
— Tony Gonsalez, correspondent
Joined: Sep 2008
Current Posts: 16
Hello All,
I'm happy to see everyone focused on what's to come. A quiet message board tells me that everyone is concentrating on what's important. A big thanks to Matt Smith, CC Times corespondent, who has been covering all the action and compiling everyone's recorded for NCS. He's been doing a fantastic job, and I've enjoyed following his weekly updates. Best of luck to everyone this post season.
- Mike Gee (O'Dowd)
P.S. Club volleyball is important, but don't lose sight of what's happening now. It's the PLAYOFFS. Best of luck to everyone trying out for club ball, it will make you a better player. Look out for each other and remember that you don't just yell "ball on," you run over and shag the ball. Be safe, and let the tight ball go... meaning DON'T GET HURT!!!
Cheers!
Joined: Aug 2009
Current Posts: 42
Good advice coachmikegee, the best part of the season is upon us...so please parents and coaches, do what you can to make sure players don't get hurt at a club try-out this weekend!
Also, I suggest all coaches make sure they know what time and where to be for NCS play-off meetings...please, no repeats of last year.
Joined: Nov 2009
Current Posts: 1
No coaches at the NCS seeding meeting. From the NCS championship bulletin "At-Large & Seeding Meeting – COACHES DO NOT ATTEND. The selection and seeding meeting will be conducted as a
closed meeting. NCS member schools have authorized the use of one committee comprised of representatives from each
NCS Conference (NCS consists of six conferences – Humboldt Del Norte, Coastal Mountain, Marin-Sonoma-Mendocino, Bay
Shore, Tri-Valley and Bay Area Conferences). Each committee will be responsible for the selection of the at-large teams and
seeding of each tournament."
Joined: Sep 2009
Current Posts: 1
who is the girl from las lomas? i think its borsch or something?
Joined: Oct 2009
Current Posts: 2
Morgan Borsch - one of the strongest outside hitters in the region. Going to be playing at UC Davis next year.
Joined: Dec 2008
Current Posts: 7
Good luck to all teams tonite in the NCS semis
Joined: Sep 2006
Current Posts: 3041
D1 Final - #2 Granada @ #1 Amador
Amador swept DV in 3 games 25-15, 25-17, 25-23
Granada Swept Foothill in 3 games, each one 25-2
D2 Final - #2 Redwood @ #1 Petaluma
Redwood trounced a strong Carondelet team 25-14, 25-17, 25-16
Petaluma topped Maria Carillo 18-25, 25-15, 34-32, 25-19
D3 Final - #5 Drake @ #3 Bishop O'Dowd
Drake silenced the top ranked Mats 25-22, 25-22, 25-18
BOD spanked #2 Analy 25-16, 25-18, 25-10
D3 is the only division where #2 isn't facing #1 in the finals, as Drake came out swinging tonight and put the hurt on Miramonte just as they had done to Campo on Saturday night. Drake has some great athletes who play well together as a team. They certainly do not look like a #5 seed.
D4 Final #2 Salesian @ #1 Marin Catholic
Salesian got by St. Helena 34-32, 25-17, 14-25, 25-8
Marin Catholic beat a game Berean squad 25-21, 25-22, 25-20
D5 Final #2 Marin Academy @ #1 Branson
Marin Academy edged SF University 25-20, 23-25, 29-31, 25-11, 15-7
Branson over Valley Christian 25-19, 25-13, 25-22
D6 Final #2 Anderson Valley @ #1 Rincon Valley Christian
Rincon squeezed by Contra Costa Christian 21-25, 25-14, 25-15, 25-21
AV took Pacific Union Prep 25-13, 19-25, 25-19, 25-13
Joined: Aug 2009
Current Posts: 42
Well, the season is fast coming to a close...and who would of thought both Campo and/or Mira would not make the NCS finals?
Where did this Drake team come from...one well coached team of solid players who work together like a well oiled machine.
I will be at O'dowd Sat to see if BOD can stop them.
Based on what I heard and read on "BOD twitter" about the Analy/BOD game, it took only an hour for BOD to finish off Analy, and Analy was never in any of the games. BOD also played a few second stringers in Game two which may account for the 18 points. Game Three was 10-1 before Analy knew what hit'em.
I will put my money on BOD...but no matter what, it should be one hell of a game.
Joined: Sep 2008
Current Posts: 8
Drake is very good. The defeated Granada in one of the Tournaments this season and can 'hit'. They don't have a large # of players but their frontline trio can put dents in the floor and block very well. We were impressed with their athleticism. We've seen athletes in the EBAL and Club Ball and they (Drake) made an impression on us. BOD better not take them lightly.
Joined: Sep 2006
Current Posts: 4920
001, I saw the heading "Drake," and got excited thinking it was the former poster from years back, the slef-acclaimed sports guru himself, coming back on the forums to spread his wisdom and knowledge.
The Pehanick twins better be ready for Drake! (Jordan & Jordan, listed twice in the paper as 2nd team all-HAAL)
Joined: Jun 2006
Current Posts: 252
Ahh, I remember Drake. He had some interesting opinions and you (BJ) and he had some interesting exchanges.
Anyway there's been a lot of good volleyball playing going on in the north bay. South bay too. As a matter of fact, all of Norcal is really stepping it up as far as the number of really good teams out there that don't get the pub.
Joined: Aug 2009
Current Posts: 42
I didn't know HAAL actually annouced/awarded this?
Just searched internet and couldn't find.
Curious to know what it looks like...even though likely all BOD.
Can you post link, or cut and paste?
Joined: Oct 2008
Current Posts: 7
cctimes: 11/20/2009
All-HAAL
Player of the Year
Stefany Taylor (Moreau Catholic)
Co-Coaches of the Year
Shari Rodriguez (Castro Valley) and Ed Smart (San Leandro)
First Team
Laura Burckhardt (MC) Sr., Lindsey Parrott (BOD) Jr.; Elizabeth Hines (CV) Sr.; Nini Mai (Slz) Sr., Rachel Stier (BOD) Sr., Stefany Taylor (MC) Sr.; Emma Hamer (SL) Sr., Alex Lynch (BOD) Jr., Marianne Quiray (SL) Sr., Molly Ratto (CV) Sr., Megan Scully (MC) Jr., Renelle Traylor (SL) Sr.
Second Team
Shelby Gerstenberger (CV) Sr., Katie Huntington (BOD) Sr., Sarah Knox (BOD) Sr., Tonisha Lacey (T) Sr., Stephanie Payumo (SL) Sr., Jade Santos (MC) So.; Jordan Pehanick (BOD) Jr.; Jordan Pehanick (BOD) Jr.; Jorcelyn Ani (H) Sr., Kirra Cheatam (H) Sr.; Melissa Gant (T) Sr., Olivia Noddin (A) Jr., Jacqueline Rivas (H) Jr., Kayleigh Zahn (CV) Sr.
Honorable Mention
Arroyo: Alyssa Porcincula (Sr.); Bishop O'Dowd: Andrea Olsen (Sr.); Hayward: Aleena Greiner (Jr.); Moreau Catholic: Melissa Paterson (Sr.), Rina Taufa'asua-Tui (Sr.), Katrina Torres (Jr.); San Leandro: Michelle Harris (Sr.), Dayna Miyahira (Jr.), Mimi Oloye (Jr.), Erica Weiskamp (Sr.); San Lorenzo: Tania Lomeli (Sr.); Tennyson: Kaila Molzen (Sr.)
Joined: Oct 2008
Current Posts: 7
cctimes:11/10/2009
All-BSAL
MVP
Malina Terrell (Salesian) Sr.
First Team
Allison Leong (Piedmont) Sr., Danielle Brown (Pie) Jr., Dana Balding (St. Mary's) Sr., Emma Jackson (Albany) Sr., Hillary Domecus (St. Patrick-St. Vincent) Sr.
Second Team
Sita Wong (Alb) Jr., Kyra Holt (Alb) Fr., Aine Stuart (Sal) Sr., Phoebe Grunt (St. Joseph Notre Dame) Fr., Anna Buttlaire (Pie) Jr., Kateri Grey (SPSV) Sr.
Honorable Mention
Brianna Habu (Alb) Sr., Talei Tagivakatini (Alb) Sr., McKenzie Giblin (Alb) So., Kimberly Grant (SM) Jr., Melinda Baubutz (SM) Jr., Gisela White (SM) Jr., Geena Series (SJND) Sr., Casandra Rodriguez (SJND) So., Ella Gauna (John Swett) Sr., Mackenzie Larson (JS) Sr., Paige Reed (SPSV) Fr.
cctimes: 11/16/09
All-DFAL
MVP
Juliana Stivanicevic (Miramonte) Sr.
First Team
Morgan Borch (Las Lomas) Sr., Maddie Baldwin (LL) Jr., Sandra Neason (Campolindo) Sr., Alex Shurtz (Cam) Sr., Mary Diamantidis (Mir) Sr., Haley Sayres (Mir) Sr., Chereese Thomas (Dublin) Sr., Akemi Inouye (Acalanes) Sr., Caroline Appert (Aca) Sr.
Second Team
Rachel Stewart (LL) Sr., Rachel Eberhard (Cam) Sr., Chandler Moore (Cam) Jr., Anisa Smith (Cam) Jr., Lissa Gilbert (Mir) Sr., Sarah Vaccaro (Mir) So., Cat Kruschke (Dub) So., Alayna Moody (Alhambra) Sr., Jalene Jiz de Ortega (Dougherty Valley) Fr., Natalie Chan (Aca) Jr., Tyanna Roy (Aca) So.
Honorable Mention
Michelle Ent (Mir) Sr., Sophie Weigarten (LL) Jr., Marika Carrel (Aca) Sr., Mia Fair (Cam) Sr., Mariah Suitos (Alh) Jr., Jaina Jiz de Ortega (DV) So., Jasmine Davidson (Dub) Sr.
cctimes:11/17/09
All-BVAL
MVP
Corinne Costa (Liberty)
First Team
Sandra Foster (Deer Valley), Tyler Harper (DV), Tasia Kwa (DV), Keesh Tolentino (DV), Haley Kavanaugh (Heritage), Megan Larmour (H), Ashleigh Reed (H), Meg Lyons (H), Tiana Rubin (Freedom).
Second Team
Amanda Wallach (DV), Kara Stark (DV), Marisse du-Long (Liberty), Brittany David (L), Chantal Lasher (L), Michelle Morente (F), Taylor Vetterli (F), Jessica Ulloa (Antioch), Brignoe Barham (A), Maddi Hancock (H).
Joined: Aug 2009
Current Posts: 42
Just home from BOD/Drake match. Great match. BOD won in 4.
Drake was down 2 games to 0, comes back to take game 3, and almost takes game 4 to push it to game 5, before O'dowd goes on 9-2 run to win game 4 at 26-24.
Drake brought some hitters with heat that caused BOD some trouble, however, BOD has just too many weapons and options for their setters...not to mention one of their setters tonight was digging bullets and dumping for kills at will.
I hear BOD will host first round of State matches tues at 7pm.
Anybody know who they play or where to find the brackets online??
Joined: Sep 2006
Current Posts: 3041
As NCS champs, Amador (D1), BOD (D3) and Salesian (D4) will each get to host the first round of NorCal against a runner up from another section. The brackets should be posted tomorrow at
cifstate dot org
Then you go to the Sports button at the top, select State Championship Sports and then Volleyball. The matches are Tuesday, Saturday and then the NorCal finals on the following Tuesday at the home of the higher seeded teams. The State Championships will be held Saturday, December 5th in Irvine. Good luck to the local teams!
Joined: Sep 2008
Current Posts: 18
This league's choices make me scratch my head. Didn't CV and San Leandro finish lower in their league standings this year? An O'Dowd player misses most of the season and still makes first team? Who comes up with this list? Coach Gee, are you there?