The Carlmont varsity girls volleyball team swept the San Mateo Bearcats displaying their dominance on the court.
The Scots established a quick lead over the Bearcats. With low energy on both sides, San Mateo struggled to compete with the Scots, leaving the final score of the first set 25-7.
The second set was no different from the first. Everything was going well for the Scots. Despite their efforts, the Bearcats couldn’t keep up with the Scots, which resulted in a 25-13 win for Carlmont in the second set.
“Our serves are working like a Swiss clock, like machinery. We almost did not miss a serve,” said Sergio Smirnoff, the Carlmont head coach.
In the third and final set of the day, the Bearcats had a shift in attitude. Their energy was up, and they seemed ready to try to take down the Scots. The Bearcats’ new energy seemed to help morale but was quickly shot back down as the Scots continued to dominate and work together, resulting in a 25-13 score to seal their victory.
“We were excited to play and excited to try new things. We did well on listening to our coach and refining things that needed fixing,” said Chloe Harris, a junior on the team.
The Scots are recovering from the loss of nine seniors from their 2023-24 season. Although the loss has been challenging, many new and old players have stepped up.
“It’s a fresh, new team. It’s a big adjustment but I think we’re doing well,” said Carlmont senior Calico Przybyszewski.
Team chemistry has also served a crucial role for the team. It has improved how players interact and collaborate on and off the court. Their bonds have helped players learn from each other.
“I think we are really close as a team and we can rely on each other. We can work together well. We’re also working together as one, rather than individuals,” Harris said.
After this match, the Scots have an optimistic outlook for their upcoming matches and games.
“I think with even the good teams, we are going to put up a tough fight. I think we are going to have a great season no matter what,” Przybyszewski said.
Although this is only the first of many games ahead for the Scots, they foresee a good outcome in playoffs.
“Everything that we are and have been doing is for that first playoff match. We are already working towards playoffs and that is our primary goal,” Smirnoff said.
