Corona del Sol beats Hamilton in high-energy affair

By Rebecca Daly

Volleyball Writer

Hamilton and Corona del Sol met Tuesday night for a potential preview of the 6A championship. (Rebecca Daly/Staff)

High-energy is an understatement when describing the atmosphere at the Hamilton High School volleyball court Tuesday night. 

Although the Corona del Sol Aztecs are undefeated so far, the odds seemed to be against them on the road with Hamilton’s full student section roaring and shouting chants throughout the game. But the Aztecs did not let that get in the way, showing an outstanding performance to win the game 3-1 over the Huskies. 

The Huskies were amped up at the start of the game with their dazzling introduction and loud supporters in the stands. 

The Huskies trailed in the first set 21-16, but then they turned on the jets. They won the next five rallies, tying the game 21-21. The Huskies and Aztecs went back and forth continuously bringing the game to a tie up to 24 points. The Huskies finished off the first set scoring the final two points, making the final score of the set 26-24.

Fueled by adrenaline from the first set, the Aztecs went on to dominate the second set from the start. With some impressive blocks and kills from the Corona del sol players, followed by four straight outs by the Huskies, the Aztecs managed to land a huge 20-7 lead. The Huskies tried to fight their way back, but the Aztecs took the set 25-13.

The Aztecs were just heating up, ready to be the powerhouse team they have displayed previously this season. Skillful tactics were exhibited on both sides, but the Aztecs established how they get the job done, dominating the ends of the last two sets. 

They won the third set 25-16 and ended the game in the fourth set 25-17. 

The Aztecs have some star players who understand how to work well together to remain the dominant team they are. A few players stood out during this game.

Junior opposite hitter Paige Nenaber had several blocks and kills that kept the Aztecs in the lead, and sealed the match point with a powerful kill.

Senior outside hitter and opposite hitter Alyssa Aguayo took some matters into her own hands racking up points for the Aztecs. 

The player of the game is the state leader for total blocks and hitting percentage, who also holds the second spot for kills. Junior middle blocker Hayden Connor was dynamic on the court, blocking and then spiking the ball when it came back over the net. Connor is a detrimental player on both offense and defense, and was a big part in leading Corona Del Sol to the victory on Tuesday. 

Corona del Sol is a serious team to watch out for this season. They are great competitors with passion that can be seen on the court. Another thing to note is that the team has only four seniors and 11 juniors, so the Aztecs already have massive potential looking ahead to next season.