For the first time since 2002 the Douglas Royals are bronze medalists after a four-set victory over the COTR Avalanche on Saturday winning 20-25, 25-21, 25-21 and 25-16.
The Royals gained momentum in the second set using the outstanding serving from Hope Curman who put together a string that brought the Royals back. From there the offensive weapons of Payton Henderson and Megan Jones took over. Henderson tallied 18 kills and Jones added nine in the victory. At the net defensive Abbie Smith and Tayah Mrcela changed the way the Avalanche wanted to attack and it make a major difference.
For the Avalanche after winning the first set they didn’t seem to have much of an answer for Henderson. On the offensive side Rose Howard, Claire Newsome and Abby Betker tried to keep them in it but fell short. Newsome had nine kills and was named the Player of the Match.
It’s the first time the Royals have won bronze in 21 seasons but is their fifth PACWEST medal in the last six seasons. Jones was named the Player of the Match.
Following the match Ryan Watters talked with Jeff Ross the head coach of the Royals.
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