Tenley Stuurmans warms up her spiking arm. (Photos by JohnsPhotos.net)
The Wolves delivered a knockout punch in the finale.
Wrapping its season in style Monday, the Coupeville Middle School varsity volleyball squad rallied on the road to stun Lakewood in a three-set thriller.
It was only the second loss this season for the Cougars, who funnel players to a large 2A high school.
Before Monday’s KO, Lakewood had only fallen to private school terror King’s.
While Coupeville’s JV teams weren’t able to win in their matchups, both of those squads capped seasons of improvement, especially the “B” unit.
How the finales played out:
Varsity:
Coming off of a tense two-match duel with South Whidbey last week, the Wolves pulled off the win of the season.
Building strongly through the match, Coupeville came out on top 19-25, 26-24, 15-8 to capture its third win of the season.
“Our girls truly demonstrated their determination and resilience, making it an unforgettable last game,” said CMS coach Cris Matochi.
“Despite facing some ups and downs, our team was more than prepared to face Lakewood and pressed on the gas pedal when it mattered the most.”
Adie Maynes defies the laws of physics.
Everything was seemingly against the Wolves — a long bus ride, a highly rated foe, the absence of key player Sydney Van Dyke, who was nursing an injury.
None of it mattered, as Coupeville’s active players pulled together and played as a well-oiled unit.
“A remarkable display of teamwork,” Matochi said. “Our players exhibited an impressive ability to keep the ball in play throughout the game.
“Their determination to take care of business was evident,” he added.
“The fact that the team rallied together and leaned on one another in Sydney’s absence speaks volumes about the strength and unity within our squad.”
Lakewood actually had match point at 24-23 in the second set, only for the Wolves to snatch the momentum back.
“We were not ready to go home and came back from the ashes stronger than ever,” Matochi said.
“Our serving was great tonight, and our defensive performance and serve receive were solid.
“The rallies were long and intense, but our players kept fighting for every point, demonstrating unwavering commitment and teamwork.”
As he looks back on the season, with its highs and lows, Matochi is grateful for the experience.
“(Fellow coach) Kristina (Hooks) and I would like to take this opportunity to extend our heartfelt gratitude to all of our players, as well as the parents and guardians who have supported us throughout this incredible season,” he said.
“Their dedication and unwavering support have been instrumental in our growth, and we couldn’t be more appreciative.”
In the moment, he wants his players to bask in their ability to mesh as a team, while also casting an eye on what they can accomplish in the future.
“As we reflect on this fantastic season, let’s celebrate this remarkable victory against Lakewood and look forward to what the future holds for our team,” Matochi said.
“The hard work, passion, and unity that define us will undoubtedly lead to more memorable moments on the volleyball court within years to come.”
Maynes and fellow 8th graders Rhylin Price (14) and Willow Leedy-Bonifas exit with a win.
JV – Level A:
The Wolves ran into a buzzsaw, falling 25-9, 25-7, 15-10.
While there were some bright moments for Coupeville, inconsistency killed any chances of mounting a truly strong fight.
“It seems like the team may have faced some challenges in today’s game due to a lack of focus and preparation during their recent practice sessions,” Hooks said.
“Additionally, Lakewood’s strong serving may have posed a tough challenge for our team’s serve receive.”
JV – Level B:
While the Wolves lost 25-20, 25-10, 15-13, the young guns continue to impress Hooks with their work as individuals and as a team.
“These girls are just happy to be out on the court and it shows,” she said. “They didn’t pay attention to the score at all and were always supportive of their teammates.”
Hooks offered particular praise for Alexandra Lo, whose upbeat personality has provided a guiding light for the team.
“I was impressed to see Alex step up and be a leader on the court,” Hooks said.
“She would tell her teammates to move up or back depending on how deep or short the serve had been landing.
“She always has a positive attitude, and you can tell that she wants her AND her teammates to do well.”
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