Six Teams, Three CIF Titles, One Saturday: Players Voices

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><a href="https://prepdig.com/subscribe/">Six teams, three CIF titles, one Saturday. Unlock full profiles with code Coachable247 for 30% off.</a></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Saturday at Cerritos College is a full day of CIF Southern Section finals, and three girls volleyball titles are on the line.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Division 3 opens the day at 12:00 pm with Corona del Mar vs. Newbury Park. Division 2 follows at 3:00 pm with Redondo Union vs. Poly/Long Beach. Division 1 closes the day at 6:30 pm with Mater Dei vs. Sierra Canyon.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>I will be in the gym for all of it. Before the first serve, I asked players two questions: what personal goal are they carrying into Saturday, and how does it feel to play for a section title?</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Their answers are below in their own words. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Division 3, 12:00 pm: Corona del Mar vs. Newbury Park</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Corona del Mar's run ended in the Division 3 quarterfinals last fall. A year later, the Sea Kings are playing for the title. Newbury Park is back in a final two years after the 2024-25 Division 4 championship match, and this time the Panthers have moved up a division.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Corona del Mar</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["543713"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6aecfc54353ad"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Savi lists outside hitter, defensive specialist and opposite on her profile, and her answer shows the mindset that goes with that versatility. She starts with her teammates, not herself. She also says plainly that this team has gone beyond what it expected of itself. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Savi's Voice </strong>“One personal goal I have for Saturday is to enjoy every remaining moment with my team. As a senior, I don't know how many games I have left with them so soaking in every opportunity to be on the court together is super important to me. It feels unreal to be playing for a title. Coming into this season I knew as a team we wanted to impress everyone and I think we have definitely overachieved. I'm so beyond proud of how far this team has come and I can't wait to leave everything out on the court with them on Saturday.”</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>~ Michelle Bamford @Coachable247</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1060995"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6aed018c923d3"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Cooper first showed up in my coverage on the Momentous 14s roster in the GJNC Gold bracket in 2024, and she is now a junior middle blocker for Corona del Mar. She talks about energy the way a coach does. Her goal is to stay even through the swings of a match and to lift her team when it is down. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Cooper's Voice </strong>“One personal goal I have going into Saturday is staying positive through the ups and downs of the game. Maintaining positive and consistent energy is very important because it can help motivate the team even if we are down. Playing for a sectional title feels so exciting. The energy in our practices are really high because we know how important this is for the CDM girls volleyball program and we are so excited to compete this weekend!!”</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>~ Michelle Bamford @Coachable247</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["726300"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6aecfc54353d3"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Shea has been on my radar since Red Rock Rave in 2025, when she played with Tstreet 14 Taylor. Her goal for Saturday is about her team, and she wrote it knowing she will not be on the floor. That tells a coach how a player contributes when she cannot play. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Shea's Voice</strong> “Unfortunately, I won't be able to play due to an injury, so my goal going into Saturday is for our team to leave everything we have on the court and play with confidence. Playing for a CIF section title is such an incredible opportunity, and it's exciting to see all our hard work, dedication, and sacrifices throughout the season come down to this moment. I'm so proud of how far we've come together, and I hope we walk away knowing we gave it our all, with a championship title to show for it!”</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>~ Michelle Bamford @Coachable247</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Newbury Park</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["542201"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6aecfc54353ee"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>I have followed Keira since she started as a freshman setter in 2023, when I wrote that she showed masterful control over the set. She has not forgotten the last time Newbury Park played for a championship, and she says so. Her focus is on finishing with no regrets.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Keira's Voice</strong> “One personal goal I am carrying into Saturday is to leave everything on the court and finish with no regrets. I am committed to competing at my highest level and doing everything in my power to secure the win. Being part of this team and earning a return to the finals means a great deal to me. Two years ago I deeply wanted another opportunity to contend for the championship; now that chance has arrived, and I intend to make the most of it.”</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>~ Michelle Bamford @Coachable247</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["731906"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6aecfc5435403"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Olena has been on my radar since the Libero Watch List in Salt Lake City in April 2025, and her GJNC medal count already reads bronze in 2023, silver in 2024 and bronze in 2025. Before the quarterfinal she told me she wanted to command the back row with her voice. She carries that same goal into the final. That is a libero who understands what her team needs from her. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Olena's Voice</strong> “One personal goal I'm bringing in to this CIF final is to command the back row and keep the energy as high as possible while doing everything I can to help the team win. It means so much to me to be able to help bring this team to a CIF final and it just makes the game on Saturday even more special because this is probably the best team we've ever had and I'm so lucky to be a part of it.”</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>~ Michelle Bamford @Coachable247</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>More Newbury Park voices from the Thousand Oaks quarterfinal are in my earlier preview: <a href="https://prepdig.com/2026/10/thousand-oaks-vs-newbury-park-division-3-quarter-finals/">Thousand Oaks vs Newbury Park: Division 3 Quarter Finals</a>.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:separator --> <hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity"/> <!-- /wp:separator --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Division 2, 3:00 pm: Redondo Union vs. Poly/Long Beach</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Redondo Union</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["536929"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6aecfc543541b"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Abbie is committed to Oregon State, and she has been in my coverage since the NTDP spring and summer series in 2025. In July 2025 she thanked her coaches and the players around her for getting her there. Her Saturday answer carries that same gratitude, and it is framed by a senior's clock. She is with [program_tooltip program_id='876208' first='SC' last='Rockstar'] this club season.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Abbie's Voice</strong> “A personal goal that I'm carrying into Saturday is to finish strong with competitive greatness, body language, and next play focus. This is my last CIF game ever, and I want to contribute to my team as best as I can, and keep playing tough until the last point. It feels amazing to be playing for a section title, and I am very grateful to be able to compete one last time with a great group of girls.”</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>~ Michelle Bamford @Coachable247</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["775554"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6aecfc543542f"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>I had Sienna on my 2025 Division 1 Players to Watch list as a middle and right side. She has since committed to Cal Poly San Luis Obispo for beach volleyball. Her answer is clean and coach-friendly: trust the work and enjoy the teammates around her.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Sienna's Voice</strong> “My personal goal for Saturday is to give everything I have, trust the work we've put in and enjoy every moment with my teammates. We've worked so hard to get to this point and I want to leave it all on the court. It means so much to have the opportunity to compete for a CIF title and I'm really proud of our team and excited to see what we can accomplish together.”</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>~ Michelle Bamford @Coachable247</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["568077"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6aecfc5435442"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>I wrote in Salt Lake City in 2025 that Roxy thrives in high-pressure matchups and does not panic. In June I wrote that she improves every time I see her. Composure and focus are the two things she says she is bringing to Saturday. Her profile lists gold at Reno in 2024, gold at Spokane and Salt Lake in 2023, and a seventh-place national finish in 2023.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Roxy's Voice</strong> “One personal goal I'm wanting to carry into Saturday is good composure and focus. I feel like when you're going for a section title you need to be completely locked it. Having this opportunity brings such proud and eager feelings. Seeing all the hard work and extra hours this season pay off is a gift in itself and it getting us this far is amazing!! I truly am eager to compete with LB Poly!”</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>~ Michelle Bamford @Coachable247</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["727583"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6aecfc5435456"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>I first wrote about Mali at the Salt Lake City Showdown in 2025, calling her a spark plug who sets with strength. She is a junior setter now ready to bring energy and run a balanced offense.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Mali's Voice</strong> “My goal for this game is to bring energy and lead a balanced offense to help my team win the title. It feels amazing knowing that all our hard work has been paying off and I'm so excited for this opportunity for my team and I!”</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>~ Michelle Bamford @Coachable247</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1060883"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6aecfc543546c"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Aria is a freshman middle blocker on a Division 2 finalist, and her goal is about discipline and support on and off the bench, which is the kind of answer you expect from an upperclassman. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Aria's Voice</strong> “One personal goal that I'm carrying into Saturday is to stay disciplined and support my teammates through every point on and off the bench. Playing for a section title feels exciting and meaningful because of all the hard work our team has put in that had led to this moment. I'm proud of what we've accomplished and I'm ready to win our final CIF game together!”</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>~ Michelle Bamford @Coachable247</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Poly/Long Beach</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["328173"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6aecfc543548e"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Cedra is verbally committed to Illinois. In August 2025 she told me her team had heart, grit and a relentless mindset, and her Saturday answer starts right there. She has been in a final before, and she is using that experience to help her teammates control their emotions and the pressure. That is leadership and emotional regulation in one answer.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Cedra's Voice</strong> “One personal goal I'm carrying into Saturday is giving everything I have for my team. I've been here before so I know how the emotions and the pressure can take over. I want to use that experience to help my teammates control their emotions/ pressure and make sure we show, compete and leave it all on the court.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Playing for a CIF section title again is such an honor and blessing! I still stand by what I said in August about my team having heart, grit, and a relentless mindset. We've shown that all season, and that is what led us to the big stage! But the job isn't finished. We have one more goal to accomplish on Saturday. We didn't come this far just to make it to the championship. We came to finish what we started, fight for each other, represent the name on our jerseys, our families, our friends, our supporters, the city of LONG BEACH and bring that title home to Long Beach Poly!”</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>~ Michelle Bamford @Coachable247</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["492317"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6aecff4eb30ba"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>McKennah moved up the 2027 California rankings update in November 2024, as an outside hitter and right side at Long Beach Poly. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>McKennah's Voice</strong> “My personal goal going into Saturday is to have a clear head, stay focused, and remember who I'm playing for. I'm playing for my teammates, my family, and most importantly, God. Playing for a section title means so much to us seniors because we were here sophomore year, and to see how much we've grown and how far we've come since then is really special. I'm so excited to get on the court and showcase all the work we've put in”</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>~ Michelle Bamford @Coachable247</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["755952"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6aecfc54354a8"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Aleeya told me in August 2025 that she plays for more than just wins. She says it again now, and she explains what she meant. Her senior year has tested her mentally and physically, and she credits her faith and her family for how she has responded. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Aleeya's Voice</strong> “One personal goal I'm carrying into Saturday is to play with confidence, trust myself, trust God's plan, and leave everything I have on the court. Last year challenged me mentally and physically, but those challenges strengthened my faith, taught me resilience, and shaped me into the player and person I am today.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>When I said I play for more than just wins, I meant that. I play for my growth, my teammates, my family, and the love I have for this game. My family's sacrifices and constant support have helped me get to where I am today.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Competing for a CIF title my senior year means so much because I know what it took to get here. Of course I want to win, but more importantly, I want to play fearless, lead with heart, and make everyone who believed in me proud. This is bigger than a championship. It's about finishing what we started, leaving my mark on Poly volleyball program, and giving God all the glory.”</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>~ Michelle Bamford @Coachable247</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["548843"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6aecfc54354bc"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Marlei plays right side, middle and outside. She wants to be the best teammate she can be, and she says the moment means more because of who she is sharing it with. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Marlei's Voice</strong> “One personal goal I have going into Saturday is to give everything I have, stay confident, and be the best teammate I can be. As a junior, playing for a section title means so much to me, especially getting to share this moment with girls I love so much. Seeing everyone work hard and accomplish their dreams makes me so happy, and I'm beyond grateful to be part of it. I just want to enjoy every second and be proud of everything we've accomplished together, no matter the outcome!”</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>~ Michelle Bamford @Coachable247</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["949338"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6aecfc54354cf"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Kerida describes her job in one line: set her team up for success. A coach reading it knows what she values. The answer is short, clear and without any ego. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Kerida's Voice</strong> “One personal goal I'm carrying into Saturday will be me setting up my team for success, that is my job as a setter. And just doing my job, overall.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>It feels amazing to be able to be playing for a CIF title. It's such a blessing and honor. We have worked so hard all season and all our hard work is paying off. I'm so excited and can't wait!”</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>~ Michelle Bamford @Coachable247</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1003192"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6aecfc54354e3"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Dayna goal is to be as vocal as possible. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Dayna's Voice</strong> “One personal goal I have carrying into Saturday is being as supportive as possible for my team. This season I haven't had much time on the court but that doesn't mean I can't contribute in other ways. In summary, I want to be as vocal as possible to push my team to victory.”</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>~ Michelle Bamford @Coachable247</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["944110"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6aedf9ea322a3"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Mina is a sophomore setter, and she says she will do whatever the team needs "on the court or on the bench." Like Dayna, she is ready to contribute from either spot. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Mina's Voice</strong> “A personal goal of mine is just to be the best I can for the team. Whether it's on the court or on the bench, just giving it my all for the team and doing whatever I can to contribute. Playing for a section title feels so unreal and rewarding. See all of our hard work pay off while getting to play with such a special group girls makes this opportunity even better.”</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>~ Michelle Bamford @Coachable247</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["534239"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6aecfc54354f8"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Cadence goes by “Cheeky”. She is a sophomore libero, and her answer is about being locked in and playing with pride and confidence. She also says her group has earned its spot. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Cadence's Voice</strong> “One personal goal I'm carrying into Saturday is to be locked in, play with pride and confidence, and do whatever I can to help my team succeed. It's a blessing to be in this position, competing for a CIF title with a group of girls who have given everything to get here. We deserve to be here and we can't wait to compete and leave it on the court!”</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>~ Michelle Bamford @Coachable247</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["779836"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6aecfc543550b"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Keola is a sophomore libero, and this is her first time competing for a section title. Her goal is staying composed and cheering on her teammates, which is a good habit for a young libero to build. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Keola's Voice</strong> “One personal goal that I'm carrying this Saturday is to stay confident and composed no matter the situation, and to always cheer on my teammates. I am very excited to compete this weekend with it being my first time competing for the section title!!”</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>~ Michelle Bamford @Coachable247</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["752500"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6aedfd615fdcf"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>London has been in my coverage since the Sunshine Classic in February 2025, when she was a prospect on LBVC 15 Gerald, and she was on my June 2025 middles contact list. She is a 5'8" middle blocker and right side at Long Beach Poly, and I had her on my Poly players-to-watch list heading into last year's CIF-SS semifinals. Her goal for Saturday has nothing to do with her own numbers. She wants to be a source of encouragement for her teammates, even if that means holding a hand an extra second. That is team culture, and coaches notice it. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>London's Voice</strong> “One personal goal I have for Saturday is just to be a source of encouragement and support for my teammates… whether it's holding their hand for an extra second longer or telling them I believe in them. It feels really good to play for a section title with my teammates. I feel that this is not only just a big game against our opponents but also to show everyone how hard we've worked and that this didn't come easy.”</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>~ Michelle Bamford @Coachable247</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:separator --> <hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity"/> <!-- /wp:separator --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Division 1, 6:30 pm: Mater Dei vs. Sierra Canyon</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>The day ends with the matchup this season has been pointing toward. Mater Dei and Sierra Canyon meet at 6:30 pm at Cerritos College for the Division 1 title, the third straight November these two have played for it. Two voices from this final are below.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Mater Dei</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["482047"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6aedf0c70e1db"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Westley has been Mater Dei's answer in both of the last two finals, with 12 kills in 2024 and 15 in 2025. She is a UCLA commit, the No. 2 player in California's class of 2027, and a back-to-back Durango Fall Classic MVP in 2025 and 2026. Her answer is not about kills. It is about the family section in the stands that gets bigger every year, and she says she plays for the people who showed up for her. Her cousin, Sierra Canyon senior [player_tooltip player_id='338908' first='Lucky' last='Fasavalu'], will be on the other side of the net. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Westley's Voice</strong> “This last one is very sentimental and bittersweet for me. I've been competing within the CIF Finals all four years of my high school experience and I couldn't be more grateful each time I get to come back. What makes competing in the final even more special is when I look up into the stands and see my village. I think we've all got to see my family take up a whole section in the Cerritos Gym and it gets bigger every year! I'm village made, so my reason to push harder and fight till the end isn't just for me, but for all the people that showed up for me. Forever grateful for my AIGA (family in Samoan) and being a Monarch!”</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>~ Michelle Bamford @Coachable247</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Sierra Canyon</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["888357"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6aedf29347174"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Kendall is PrepDig's No. 1 player in California's class of 2027 and the middle Mater Dei has to account for on every swing. In the 2025 final she had 12 kills and 7 blocks on .320 hitting. In my 10/30 preview she told me she leads by keeping her teammates confident and composed, and that this run mattered because it was her last chance to compete with this group. Last night she announced a new commitment to Texas A&amp;M, changing course from Nebraska, and she explained the decision in her own words on Instagram. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Kendall's Voice</strong>, from her Instagram announcement “God's plans have always been greater than my own. A year and a half ago, I was a completely different person. I had dreams and a vision for my future that I thought I had all figured out. When I first committed to Nebraska, I was caught up in the idea of being on the biggest stage. I thought the recognition and approval of others would somehow prove that I was enough.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>He has shown me that my worth was never attached to a ranking, a jersey, or anyone's opinion of me. I am loved, chosen, and valued simply because I am His. And for the first time, I truly believe that.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Walking away from something I once prayed for was one of the hardest decisions I've ever made. There were tears, difficult conversations, and moments of uncertainty. I know not everyone will understand, but I've learned that following God doesn't always make sense to the world. Sometimes surrender means trusting Him with a future different from the one you imagined.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>To Nebraska, thank you for an opportunity I will always be grateful for. I have so much love and respect for the coaches and everyone who has been part of this chapter.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>To Coach Jamie, Lindsey, Jeff, Jen and the entire Texas A&amp;M staff, thank you for seeing the person before the player. Thank you for caring about my heart, my faith, and who I'm becoming beyond this sport. That means more than you know.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>I don't know every detail of what lies ahead, but I know Who holds my future. I'm all in on the people, the vision, and what is being built in College Station. With a grateful heart, I'm blessed to announce my commitment to Texas A&amp;M University.”</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>~ Michelle Bamford @Coachable247</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Please read our separate article on this rivalry with quotes from players on both rosters: <a href="https://prepdig.com/2026/11/sierra-canyon-mater-dei-meet-for-the-third-straight-cif-ss-final/">Sierra Canyon, Mater Dei Meet for the Third Straight CIF-SS Final</a>.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><em>All stats and results are sourced from <a href="https://www.maxpreps.com/" data-type="link" data-id="https://www.maxpreps.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">MaxPreps</a></em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:separator --> <hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity"/> <!-- /wp:separator --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Also on the Rosters</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Corona del Mar:</strong> Myrsini Charalabidi, [player_tooltip player_id='1061104' first='Olivia' last='Rosowski'], Lila Peykoff, [player_tooltip player_id='805663' first='Sofia' last='Dajnowiec'], Isabella Spinella, Friyana McAfee, [player_tooltip player_id='1061113' first='Kyleigh' last='Jen'], Marina Barboza, Samantha Sullivan, Eden Brown, Sarah Rosing, Ayla Odabaee</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Newbury Park:</strong> Taylor Black, [player_tooltip player_id='1056726' first='Luciana' last='Liebscher'], Molly Hees, [player_tooltip player_id='759305' first='Jenna' last='Vega'], Jayda Hinson, [player_tooltip player_id='510414' first='Emma' last='Christenson'], Delaney Knopp, [player_tooltip player_id='697423' first='Charley' last='Knupp'], [player_tooltip player_id='1057171' first='Scarlett' last='Overbeck'], [player_tooltip player_id='780037' first='Sara' last='Vlaskovits'], [player_tooltip player_id='919908' first='Ava' last='Lundmark'], Sofia Hayes, [player_tooltip player_id='1057345' first='Emmery' last='Reynolds'], [player_tooltip player_id='1056631' first='Emma' last='Lundmark']</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Redondo Union:</strong> [player_tooltip player_id='391411' first='Marlo' last='Libbey'], Linnaea Nielsen, Anya Patel, Marlee Peterson, Addison "Addy" Choi, Addison Uphoff, [player_tooltip player_id='780729' first='Leah' last='Blair'], Makaela Munzon, Sabrina Ezer, Ellie Smith, Brooke Bradford, Gabriela Kumagai, Kiki Hill, [player_tooltip player_id='482041' first='Samantha' last='Savage'], Asofiafia So'oto, [player_tooltip player_id='771479' first='Braunwyn' last='Brown']</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Poly/Long Beach:</strong> Elisara, [player_tooltip player_id='721031' first='Taimane' last='Poe'], Ellie Iamaleava, [player_tooltip player_id='708497' first='Lailah' last='Clayborne'], [player_tooltip player_id='740877' first='Alison' last='Wetteland'], [player_tooltip player_id='1001938' first='Mariel' last='Palloran'], [player_tooltip player_id='524595' first='Avery' last='Milburn'], [player_tooltip player_id='752500' first='London' last='Caldwell']</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Mater Dei:</strong> [player_tooltip player_id='533581' first='Kalea' last='Lee'], [player_tooltip player_id='747547' first='Syriana' last='Messy'], [player_tooltip player_id='545359' first='Saaliyah' last='Brown'], [player_tooltip player_id='747484' first='Malu' last='Rodrigues'], [player_tooltip player_id='748210' first='Jael' last='Smith'], [player_tooltip player_id='540826' first='Paige' last='Linden'], [player_tooltip player_id='914874' first='Abbey' last='Krogh'], [player_tooltip player_id='546559' first='Savanah' last='Capinpin'], [player_tooltip player_id='770397' first='Sienna' last='Cicero'], [player_tooltip player_id='524364' first='Hailey' last='Lee'], [player_tooltip player_id='486781' first='Katherine' last='Nowak'], [player_tooltip player_id='775543' first='Shewa' last='Adefemiwa'], [player_tooltip player_id='524282' first='Reagan' last='Williams'], [player_tooltip player_id='515127' first='Riley' last='Stringer'], [player_tooltip player_id='769741' first='Jimin' last='Seung'], [player_tooltip player_id='455792' first='Emma' last='Kingston'], [player_tooltip player_id='548564' first='Madison' last='Nolting'], [player_tooltip player_id='515402' first='Janiah' last='Burrage'], [player_tooltip player_id='1056636' first='Madi' last='Dolsophon']</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Sierra Canyon:</strong> [player_tooltip player_id='545313' first='Hanna' last='McGinest'], [player_tooltip player_id='338908' first='Lucky' last='Fasavalu'], [player_tooltip player_id='725857' first='Arpi' last='Saryan'], [player_tooltip player_id='999246' first='Payton' last='Wrighster'], [player_tooltip player_id='778947' first='Daisy' last='Brown'], Yianna Zaky-Papantoniou, [player_tooltip player_id='545258' first='Evangeline' last='Jeffries'], [player_tooltip player_id='526557' first='Sydney' last='Rincon'], [player_tooltip player_id='745719' first='Blake' last='Gurney'], [player_tooltip player_id='569569' first='Anaya' last='Dela Fuente'], [player_tooltip player_id='474505' first='Raneighla' last='Gonzalez'], [player_tooltip player_id='782106' first='Olive' last='Shum'], [player_tooltip player_id='545365' first='Leah' last='Madariaga'], [player_tooltip player_id='765057' first='Kassidee' last='Smith'], [player_tooltip player_id='887739' first='Maveti' last='Faumuina'], Isabella Torres-Wallace, [player_tooltip player_id='475609' first='McKenna' last='McIntosh']</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:separator --> <hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity"/> <!-- /wp:separator --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">If You Enjoyed This Article, Help Us Keep the Momentum Going</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>🔥 Athletes</strong><br><a href="https://prepdig.com/prospect-index/">Update your PrepDig Prospect Index profile</a> so it's complete and current, with a photo, your club, your school and your latest film. Explore the player profiles featured in this article and see how other athletes are building their stories. Then share this article and tag your teammates. Visibility grows when you're part of the conversation.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>📣 Club Coaches &amp; Directors</strong><br><a href="https://prepdig.com/california/clubs/club-programs/">Keep your club updated in the California Club Program Database</a> and stay connected to every opportunity we create for exposure. Celebrate the athletes from your program who were featured, and use this article to start a conversation about trajectory.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>🎯 College Coaches</strong><br><a href="https://prepdig.com/college-subscribe/">Use a Premium College Subscription</a> to learn more about the whole athlete: full profiles, rankings, evaluations and the stories behind the stat line.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>🙏 Parents &amp; Supporters</strong><br>Download the Prep Network app (<a href="https://apps.apple.com/us/app/prep-network/id6761510133">iPhone</a> | <a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.prepnetwork.app">Android</a>) to follow your athlete's journey and share this article with your family, your club and your community. Thank you for taking the time to read and support the exposure PrepDig provides for these athletes, and for helping us celebrate the work behind every name on this page.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>🚀 <strong><a href="https://prepdig.com/subscribe/">Upgrade to a PrepDig+ Subscription</a></strong><br>Access exclusive rankings, deeper analysis, and the full Prospect Index to follow every athlete's journey.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:separator --> <hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity"/> <!-- /wp:separator --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading"><a href="https://prepdig.com/events" data-type="link" data-id="prepdig.com/events">N<strong>eed More Exposure? Attend a PrepDig Showcase</strong></a></h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><em><strong>Use Code: MichelleBamford10 for $10 off on all Showcases</strong></em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Our showcases are designed for athletes who want to take ownership of their recruiting journey and better understand how visibility, evaluation, and opportunity work together. These events offer more than competition. They provide athletes with a chance to learn how exposure works, compete in front of evaluators, build confidence, and gain valuable insight into what coaches are looking for at each stage of development.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Whether your goal is to improve communication, showcase your skills, earn recognition, receive meaningful evaluation, or simply learn how to stand out in a competitive environment, each showcase is built to help athletes grow both on and off the court. If you're ready to invest in your development, tell your story, and put yourself on the radar, <a href="https://prepdig.com/all-events/?type=Showcase" id="https://prepdig.com/all-events/?type=Showcase"><strong>registration is open</strong></a>.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:image {"id":1058263,"sizeSlug":"large","linkDestination":"none"} --> <figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://prepdig.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/2026/11/image_16c1a8.png?w=1024" alt="" class="wp-image-1058263"/></figure> <!-- /wp:image --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Thank you for making today's wins matter — one article, one player, one memory at a time.</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong><em>~ Michelle Bamford @Coachable247</em></strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph -->