The Student Newspaper of Highline College

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Sonya Fa'amalele following through a kill.

Highline women’s volleyball team is on fire and on top of their conference

Nicolas Cardenas Staff Reporter Oct 12, 2023

Akshay Rabadia/THUNDERWORD

In a match that had fans out of their seats, the Highline College women’s volleyball team showcased their prowess and dominance as they bested Centralia with a convincing 3-0 home victory.

They hosted Centralia on Oct. 6, at 6 p.m. and with their win, the Thunderbirds affirmed their place in the top of the NWAC and as a force to be reckoned with in the league.

Denys Matsyuk/THUNDERWORD

Spike form Brisies Lemafa.

Highline’s Tru Onisuka, known for her incredible serves, lived up to her reputation, racking up an impressive 5 service aces and helping her team secure the lead in the first set. The first set saw Highline take command, securing a 25-12 victory over Centralia.

Halle Garrity, an emerging star on the team, demonstrated her power on the court with 8 kills in the second set.

Denys Matsyuk/THUNDERWORD

Adrianna Taliloa and Halle Garrity up on the block.

Madison Mamizuka, the team’s skilled setter, facilitated the offense beautifully, amassing 32 assists.

Highline sealed the victory with a 25-9 win in the third set, with Chelsea Velez contributing 10 kills and 1 block, while Sonya Fa’amalele was a defensive force, earning 9.5 points with 9 kills and 1 block.

For Centralia, Josie Schultz stood out with 2 kills and a block, but they were unable to gain a foothold against Highline’s formidable lineup.

Highline’s victory over Centralia not only cements their position as a dominant team but also highlights the individual talents of players like Tru Onisuka, Halle Garrity, Madison Mamizuka, Chelsea Velez, and Sonya Fa’amalele.

The team’s synergy, powerful serves, and skillful attacks have left their fans eager to see what they will accomplish next in this exciting volleyball season.

Despite our efforts, Head Coach Chris Clittleman was unavailable to respond or accept our interview request. And while we regret not being able to hear from Coach Clittleman directly about the team’s continued dominance on the court, we remain dedicated to bringing you the latest updates on the Highline College women’s volleyball team and their journey this season.

Denys Matsyuk/THUNDERWORD

The team is all smiles as they gather to review at the end game.