No. 7 Vaqs Bounce Back from First Loss with Upset Win over No. 5 LA Mission

The Santa Barbara City College women's volleyball team suffered its first loss of the season on Wednesday to No. 11 Santa Monica in three sets (25-19, 25-23, 25-22) at Robertson Gymnasium. The No. 7-ranked Vaqueros responded on Friday with an upset 3-2 win (19-25, 25-23, 25-19, 20-25, 15-13) at No. 5 LA Mission.

"It wasn't our best night of play," said head coach Kat Niston about the loss against Santa Monica. "We knew Santa Monica was a strong team, and that we have a big target on our back, still being undefeated. I hope that we can learn from this loss, and that it fuels our fire and drive to compete."

Valeria Bellodas stood out with 20 digs while Stephanie Groswirt posted another double-double in the defeat with 16 assists and 13 digs.

Nothing was easy on Friday, against one of the best teams in the entire state. The Eagles came into the match with a 14-0 record on the season.

Mission jumped out to an early lead, claiming the first set 25-19. SBCC responded by holding on for a 25-23 win in the second set. 

Santa Barbara claimed the third set 25-19, while Mission forced a fifth by winning the fourth set 25-20.

The Vaqueros held on to claim the decisive set 15-13.

"To win our conference opener, on the road, against a previously undefeated team was the highlight of the season thus far," said Niksto. "I am so proud of the resilience our team showed throughout a long match that featured a lot of very long rallies."

Kaylin Cooney collected 14 kills while Bayley Padia added 16 kills and 14 digs. 

"Both outside hitters, Kaylin and Bayley, took a ton of swings and really carried the load offensively for the team," said Niksto.

Hazel Irving returned to action after missing five games, recording seven kills.

"We welcomed Hazel back to the court and she immediately made an impact," said Niksto. "While Steph handled the setting duties, she was also a huge presence at the net with her block. Val had another standout night, and lots of others contributed to the win as well. It truly was a team effort."

Goswirt dished out 44 assists with 18 digs and two aces, while Bellodas chipped in another 20 digs.

The Vaqueros are now 11-1 on the season and 1-0 in conference play. They return home to Robertson Gymnasium on Wednesday to host Cuesta at 6 p.m.