COLCHESTER – On Sunday, Nov. 2, the No. 2 BFA-St. Albans Comets’ varsity volleyball team fell to the No. 1 Essex Hornets in the D1 Vermont volleyball state championship.
The day following the championship, Comets’ Coach Bert Berthiaume shared his thoughts on the season and the match.
“I’m extremely proud of the season that these young ladies had. They practiced hard all season and were dedicated to improving each day. Yesterday was a disappointment, because they were striving to be state champions. When you set high standards, you risk being disappointed. We can be disappointed with the results, but we should applaud the efforts of these young ladies not only in the championship but also for what they accomplished all season long,” said Berthiaume. “They brought people to the gym wanting to watch them play. We showed in the Championship that we can compete with the best. Our first and last sets were a display of outstanding volleyball by both teams. The oohs and aahs from the fans were thrilling.”
Berthiaume also spoke of the team’s seniors: “Our four seniors have been in the program for four years. Maggie and Ella Dunnigan, Molly Bernard, and Leianne Phillips have played this sport with passion. All four have improved so much since their freshman season. They’ve represented our program with class and have left their mark on this program. Their legacy will be one they can be proud of.”
Looking ahead, Berthiaume said, “Next year will once again be a challenge to make the varsity team, with many candidates to compete for a roster spot. I’m confident we have the talent and determination to once again make it to St. Mikes and compete for a championship, and hopefully come away with that elusive state title.”
In the opening set of the D1 state championship match, Emma Harrison led off with the serve for the Comets, who quickly tallied two points and went on to take a slender lead in the back-and-forth set.
The teams battled through the first set, showcasing several long volleys, impressive digs, dives, and excellent serving.
The Comets tied the first set 24-24, earning a wild cheer from the fans, and a chance to win the set, but the defending D1 state champions sealed the competitive set 26-24.
Essex jumped to an early lead in the second set thanks to solid serving. Despite trailing early, the Comets maintained their energy, diving and digging, but the Hornets eventually went on to win the second set 25-11.
The Comets came out composed and focused for the third set, staying close to the Hornets early, and at times carrying a lead. As the set continued, the Hornets built a lead, but the tenacious Comets battled back. The Hornets eventually won the set 24-21.
