On Thursday, Aug. 29, the Varsity volleyball Lady Reds faced Livingston in a close matchup that was back and forth until the very end but ultimately the Reds walked away with the win, 3-0.
The opening set was a back-and-forth affair, with both teams displaying exceptional skill and strategic prowess. It ended with the Reds taking set one 25-19.
Livingston took an early lead in the second match, only to see Gustine come back with a series of powerful spikes and precise serves to win the second set 25-18.
After the continuous back-and-forth game, Gustine became the stronger team and came out to win set three early on 25-14 ending the match with three set wins.
Gustine now has an overall record of 1-3, according to MaxPreps.
The victory came as the team had to make some adjustments in positioning, said Coach Toni Adams. It led to a standout performance from sophomore Martha Torres, Adams said.
“Martha usually plays middle but we lost our left hitter to injury so I had to move her over,” Adams said. “She adjusted very well. She had four kills through the three sets.”
Gustine senior Shandel Aguilera also had an impressive match, notching up seven kills and nine aces.
Adams is feeling optimistic for the upcoming season, especially by the bond that has developed over the years between the juniors and seniors. One goal Adams has set for the team is getting over the 20 point hurdle.
“They get to the 20 points and then struggle to get those final five points to put the game away,” Adams said. “But I have very big hopes they’re going to be able to do it.”
On Saturday, Aug. 31, the JV lady Reds competed in the 14th annual Orestimba High School Junior Varsity volleyball tournament. The Reds had to play 4 different teams and won 2 out of 4 games. The Lady Reds were able to come out of the tournament with a plaque for being the 1st place team in the Onyx Division. Their next game will be on Sept. 4 against Big Valley Christian.
The Lady Reds will face Big Valley Christian on Sept. 4 in Modesto as their final game of preseason. Their League home opener will be on Sept. 9 against Mariposa at 6:30 p.m.
