Caledonia’s Sr. Girls volleyball team was “definitely in the running for the hardware” at this year’s provincial championships, losing only twice – to the two teams who placed first and second – and finishing fifth overall.
That’s the best finish the team has seen at a provincial championship, and a testament to the years of dedication the team has put forward since middle school.
“We definitely peaked at the right time,” said coach Carmen Didier in an email after the tournament. “Very proud of all the girls.”
Cal entered AAA Sr. Girls Provincials, held this year in Parksville, ranked eighth in the province after a successful season that began at a tournament in Alberta the weekend school was back in session after the teacher labour dispute ended.
The first day of play saw Cal beat Clayton Heights and McRoberts in two straight sets a piece before falling to Timberline in two, the first set a close 25-20 and the second 25-11.
Day two, Caledonia found College Heights’ number before getting knocked out of medal contention by the team who would go on to win provincials for the third year in a row, South Delta.
Caledonia then took on the hometeam, Ballenas, in two sets before taking on Dover in the 5th vs. 6th consolation final, which the team would win in two straight sets to end the championship tournament on a high note.
Another high note: Caledonia’s Cassidy Kitchen was named on the First All-Star Team.
This marks the end of a successful high school volleyball career for the majority of the girls – all but two are graduating this year.
