By Charlotte Gilbert '27
Both students and players were ecstatic for the ND Dragons' volleyball game against McClancy High School on Friday September 27th. If you weren't aware, both the JV and varsity teams for Notre Dame made it to the finals last year in the playoffs but came in second place after losing to McClancy. Knowing their history, this game was an exciting matchup. The first game was for JV at 4:00. The two captains Parker Huang and Erin Diaz did an amazing job keeping up the energy and leading the team through the entire game. The whole gym was filled with noise. The ND student and parent sections to the right, McClancy students to the left, and cheerleaders in both corners. There were chants and calls coming from both teams, and the intensity was rising. The atmosphere was electric as the players took the court, fueled by their memories from last year.
The match started with an intense first set, where McClancy established the
lead. Despite many impressive rallies, the ND Dragons fell short by the end of the first set. They had lost by 8 points. 25-17. “We need to play with more intensity,” said Ms. Vulcano, the junior varsity coach. The outcome of the first set was nerve racking, but that only motivated Notre Dame players even more.
As the first whistle of the second set blew, ND players were ready with
renewed energy. Their defense tightened and the players communicated and moved more efficiently on the court. With a series of well-played rallies and as key players stepped up, it was looking good for the ND Dragons. With the score of 25-18 by the end of the set, Notre Dame players had regained their confidence.
Entering the third set, ND maintained their momentum. The difference in this set was that it went up to 15 points, instead of 25. This put a little more pressure on the players for both sides. Each point was hard fought and the long rallies kept all players and spectators on the edge of their seats. Players from Notre Dame continued to showcase their teamwork and communication skills. Ultimately, ND sealed the victory, winning the match two sets to one. This was not just a win, but a redemption from last year. The ND Dragons were able to efficiently grow as a team and learn from their previous defeat.
Photo Courtesy of Charlotte Gilbert
Edited by Catherine Grace Polatidis '26 and Ms. Brilliant
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