The Santa Rosa Junior College Volleyball team kicked off their 2024 season at home with a solid showing over the weekend, going 3-1 in a series of matches against Shasta College, Porterville College, and Butte College.
The Bear Cubs opened their campaign with a split against Shasta College. In the first match, SRJC faced tough competition but managed to regroup and take the second game of the day, through a grueling 5 set match, showcasing their resilience and ability to adapt under pressure.
Building on the momentum, the Bear Cubs went on to secure convincing victories against Porterville College and Butte College. Their success in these matches highlighted the team's depth and strategic play, with contributions coming from across the roster.
Several players delivered standout performances throughout the weekend. Sophomore outside hitter Katy Brenninger led the team with a remarkable 46 kills, while freshman Madison Shaw made a strong debut with 38 kills, establishing herself as a key offensive threat.
The team's middle blockers, sophomores Sarah Thornton and Kiana Walker, were formidable at the net, contributing crucial offensive and defensive plays that made them tough to stop. The offense was orchestrated effectively by setters Sierra Yates-Bruch and Natalie Walsh, who each made significant contributions to the team's balanced attack.
On the defensive side, libero Jaiden Brooner was a force, anchoring the back row with 92 digs over the weekend, ensuring that the Bear Cubs stayed competitive in every match.
This strong start sets a positive tone for the rest of the season as SRJC continues to compete in the highly competitive Big 8 Conference under the guidance of head coach Ally Sather, now in her seventh year leading the program. With a blend of experienced players and promising newcomers, the Bear Cubs are poised to make an impact in the weeks ahead.
Next, the bear cubs will hit the road for a road trip down to Leemoore and Taft this week.