Kennedy earned a 3-1 victory over McClatchy on Senior Night April 16. The gym was full of excitement before the game even started as the team’s seniors prepared for one of their final home matches. Friends, family, and classmates filled the stands creating a loud and supportive atmosphere. With so much energy in the building, Kennedy came in ready to compete and used that energy to earn a strong win over McClatchy.
From the very beginning, Kennedy set the tone. In the first set, they came out aggressive and confident, scoring the first five points and putting immediate pressure on McClatchy. Their defense stood out early, with strong blocks at the net and quick saves that kept rallies alive. McClatchy struggled to respond, making several mistakes and having trouble getting the ball over the net. Kennedy stayed in control the entire set and secured a 25-19 win.
Senior Maximus Vang (#22) said the team’s mindset made a big difference early on.
“We were hyping each other up and believing in one another, and keeping the momentum with us,” he said.
The second set was the most intense part of the match. Kennedy once again started strong, earning the first two points off solid serves and keeping their energy high. Their offense was sharp, with powerful spikes that McClatchy had trouble returning. However, as the set went on, McClatchy began to adjust and slowly closed the gap. The score tightened to 18-17, then eventually tied at 20-20.
McClatchy took the lead late in the set, going up 24-21 and putting Kennedy in a tough position. But instead of giving up, Kennedy stayed composed. They fought through long rallies, stayed focused, and slowly worked their way back. With strong communication and effort on every play, Kennedy completed the comeback and won the set 26-24.
Senior Josh Vang (#12) explained how important energy was, especially in close moments like that.
“Honestly, it was just the energy, without the energy we wouldn’t be able to steal the win from them,” he said. “If there’s no energy on the court, we are not going to win. We need energy every time.”
In the third set, McClatchy came back ready to compete. The set started close, with both teams going back and forth. Kennedy took a small lead at 14-11, but their defense started to slip, allowing McClatchy to take advantage. McClatchy built momentum and eventually took control, winning the set 25-21.
With the match still in their hands, Kennedy entered the fourth set determined to finish strong. They quickly regained control, taking advantage of McClatchy’s mistakes and stepping up their defensive effort. Kennedy showed better hustle, communication, and focus, not allowing McClatchy to gain any rhythm. With consistent play and strong teamwork, Kennedy dominated the set and closed out the match with a 25-14 win.
Senior Hiram Garcia (#8) said the support from his teammates played a big role in the win.
“My teammates kept me up, they didn’t talk badly or anything. It was just all positive and it made me wanna win,” he said.
While the win was important, the night meant even more because it was Senior Night. For many players, it was a chance to reflect on their time with the program and the relationships they built.
“Have fun with all my senior friends, and giving a chance to the juniors to see us,” Maximus Vang said.
“It means a lot. People coming out to support us, it means so much to me,” Josh Vang said.
“Spending time with these seniors… this is our last time playing a home game on this court,” Garcia said.
As the final points were scored and the crowd cheered, it was clear that this game was about more than just volleyball. It was about teamwork, effort, and the bond between teammates who have played together for years.
In the end, Kennedy’s victory came from their energy, communication, and ability to stay positive through every set. On a night dedicated to celebrating the seniors, they delivered a performance that reflected their hard work and left a lasting memory on their home court.
