The Centennial Christian School senior girls claimed the zone victory with an undefeated record last weekend in Smithers.
“They played their best volleyball of the season,” said coach Rayna Braam. “I’ve never seen the girls play like that. It was awesome!”
The team is gearing up for 'A' provincials on Dec. 1-3 in Kelowna, a first for the Centennial girls volleyball teams.
Despite half the team being of junior age, Grades 8-10, the senior team won every game in the round robin, playing against Bulkley Valley Christian School (BVCS) from Smithers, Hazelton Secondary School and Masset and Queen Charlottes City from Haida Gwaii in the round robin.
Next Centennial beat Masset in the semi-final to jump into the final against BVCS.
Coach Kelsey Merritt said the girls were pretty nervous as they entered the final game, and lost 18-25 in the first set.
But the team regrouped and went on to seize three straight victories, 25-12, 25-21, and 25-17.
Both coaches said they were extremely proud.
“Each girl reached individual goals throughout the tournament,” Merritt said.
“Eryn Struyk, our zone MVP, was a solid foundation for the team with her consistent serves, quick feet and hard hits.”
She added that Hope Azak was a powerful force and Maria Ringma led the team with smart plays.
They had two goals going into the tournament: to play hard through adversity, and to be unified as a team, Masset said.
“We're proud of these girls for doing just that.”
Centennial is currently buzzing as the senior boys team hosts provincials this weekend at the old Thornhill Junior gym and at Skeena Secondary School.
That championship starts today, Nov. 24, and ends with the gold medal match on Saturday, Nov. 26 at 6 p.m.