The Long Beach Poly girls’ volleyball team looked sharp in its home Moore League opener on Thursday afternoon against Wilson. Poly has had firepower all year but saw its passing improve dramatically against the Bruins, as the Jackrabbits went on to a 25-18, 25-12, 25-13 victory.
“I think our passing is getting better,” said senior Poly setter Liz Schuster, a Cal State Fullerton commit. Schuster led Poly with 36 assists, 10 digs, and two aces. She’s in a new role on the team this year as a senior leader, something unusual for a player who’s been a four-year varsity starter.
“It’s definitely different, I’m used to being the young one,” she said. “But our freshmen and the younger players are such a big help, they’ve got the IQ and the skill level, it’s just helping them get experience.”
Senior Allanah Cutler (a West Point commit) had 10 kills and 10 digs in the match. Freshman Adonia Faumuina had 12 kills, 14 digs, and three aces, while freshman Riley McGinest had seven kills and three blocks. Junior Elizabeth Requejo came in and showcased Poly’s depth, putting up seven kills on just nine swings.
For Wilson, coach Carlos Briceno said his goals for the league schedule are modest.
“Our goal is the second time around in league to be better, to be better prepared to compete,” he said. “It’s obvious the Polys and Lakewoods have the upper hand right now. What I really want is to get ready for CIF in Division 3.”
Wilson definitely has the firepower to make a run in that division. Gabby Sonnhalter led the Bruins against Poly with five kills, backed up by three kills from Elliot Barron and four kills from Risa Sena.
