The San Marcos girls volleyball team had a stellar start to the 2022-23 season. Before this week they were sitting with a 6-0-2 record. Two weeks ago the Royals took on the Buena Bulldogs, and the Dos Pueblos Chargers. The Royals fought hard for a 4 set victory over Buena, and put on a show against the Dos Pueblos Chargers with a 3-0 performance in the win. Sophomore setter Josie Gamberdella was a key player in the Royals success. She had 35 assists and four aces on the night. Outside hitter Elena Thomas also played a big role in the win, with a match high of 16 kills. Riley Green finished off the Chargers by crushing a ball just inside the back line.

After this big win over Dos Pueblos the Royals were amped to face rivals Santa Barbara last week. This wasn’t the first time the two teams have faced off this season, the two teams battled last month and the royals being taken down and losing in 4 sets. Sadly for the Royals, they fell short to the Dons once again last Thursday in 4 sets. 

The Royals got off to a dominant start of the first set, and ended up winning the first set 26-24 after a comeback run by the Dons. Outside hitter Elena Thomas finished the game with 27 kills,and 17 digs which still wasn’t enough in San Marcos’ defeat. The Royals were down 23-19 in the second set and battled to get 3 points but still lost the set after a kill through the Royals block. 

“I think that SB had lots of good energy on the court,” said junior Kate Edgar. “We need to keep our energy from the first set and carry it out for the rest of the game.” 

Santa Barbara went on to win the 3rd and 4th set securing the win and leaving no chance for the Royals to win the Chanel league.