The Boys Varsity volleyball team’s senior night took place against Terra Linda High School (TL) Thursday, April 21 and gave a perfect end to their season, keeping their streak of 15-0. 10 graduating  seniors were represented during this game, each crucial members of the successful squad. The boys Varsity volleyball team ended their season undefeated in their Marin County Athletic League (MCAL) record and won three sets in a row during their senior night match, despite the second set ending with a two point difference, 24-26. 

“[This] season has been great, [the team was] undefeated in MCAL, they played a great out of league schedule, and I think we’re in good shape for the playoffs, and ready to make a deep run in the playoffs,” said coach Greg Jones. 

In the first set, senior defensive specialist (DS) Finn Corr attempted to dropkick the volleyball as a serve. “Kicking” the volleyball during a rally is permitted, though it is not allowed as a serve, so the other team received the point. Ziggy Rees, senior Libero, had four textbook serves, giving the Falcons the upper hand.

Ahead by four points nearly halfway through the night, the Falcons had senior setter and team captain, Owen Johnson, up to serve. He was able to widen the Falcon’s lead by nine points. There was a constant rally back and forth for points, but AWHS eventually won the first set with a score of 25-19, with senior middle Drew Samway making the final hit. 

In the second set, the competition continued to be tight, both teams anxious to take the lead. The Falcons and Trojans exchanged blows and, halfway through the second set, senior right side Kyle Ford brought the Falcons within one point after an amazing kill, making the score 13-14. In the final moments of the second set, senior Jordan Freeman had two crucial kills to fly the Falcons over the Trojans 26-24.

Contrasting the second set, the Falcons had control of the entirety of the third set, with Kyle contributing three amazing kills in a row. AWHS stayed on top even as rallies and intense competition continued. TL, an overall younger and less experienced team, gave Jones the opportunity to play all of the Falcon seniors, also honoring their last MCAL match of their high school experience. It also gave the seniors an opportunity to have fun and play different positions, compared to previous high-pressure games. 

“I thought we played good, we were mixing up positions and everyone was just out there having fun. It was good to honor the seniors,  especially the ones who have been here for four years, I think it’s less competitive and more of just having a good time,” Owen said. 

 The Trojans missed their final serve, leading the Falcons to win the last and final set, at 25-19. The Falcons remain undefeated in MCAL and, with their teamwork and masterminded coach, are sure to make a deep playoff run at the MCAL title. On Wednesday, April 27 the Falcons will play at home in the semi-finals for MCALs against Redwood.