Girls Volleyball Midseason Momentum is in Full Swing

Halfway through their season, Santa Barbara High School (SBHS)’s girls varsity volleyball team hopes to “get their revenge”. As the season has progressed, all three SBHS female volleyball teams, frosh, junior varsity, and varsity, are off to a strong start. The gym is buzzing with energy this fall as each squad has had impressive games within their leagues. 

The varsity team so far has won five league matches and lost two, but have played many more games which have showcased excellent performances and opportunities to grow. Many standout players have been recognized including Jules Horton, setter, for her assists, defense, and serving, Kira Elliot as an offensive leader, Blake Saunders for her all-around skill, and Paylin Marcillac for clutch serving under pressure and in tight situations. Also, middle blockers Lola Heckman and Jacqueline Durling have been celebrated for their strong performances in a match versus Saugus on August 12th, 2025. The varsity team has well-rounded players with specific strengths that have contributed to great matches. Some notable varsity games this year include the 3-0 sweep against cross-town rivals Dos Pueblos, a hard-fought victory 3-2 against Valencia and another 3-0 win to Buena. In addition, the junior varsity team is undefeated in the season so far and is stacked with many talented up-and-coming players. The frosh team is also coming together and learning a lot this year with some great games and incredible teamwork. 

Despite losing many seniors to graduation last year, the varsity volleyball team is working really well together. Kira Elliot, a sophomore, said the team being “closer in age” (mostly juniors and sophomores with the exception of two seniors) has really helped “bring the team together.” The junior varsity team is connecting really well with each other as well. About half the players are new to the team, but captain Phoebe Peterson said, “The atmosphere is really welcoming and everyone is getting along really well.” A positive environment is very important because, as varsity Coach Hempy said, “High school volleyball is a very intense sport and can be very competitive.” Overall, the teams are bonding well and getting better together. The leadership on each team has been influential. The varsity team captains are Lauren McFadden, Paylin Marcillac, and Blake Saunders. The junior varsity captains are Natalia Yoshimi and Phoebe Peterson and the frosh team captains are Ingrid Ellis and Amelia Scribner.

Looking ahead, frosh captain Ingrid Ellis said she hopes the team will “improve gameplay” and “continue to have positive attitudes.”  The varsity team hopes to “get revenge” on the teams they have lost to, San Marcos and Ventura, and make the playoffs. Since the majority of their team is sophomores and juniors, many will be coming back next year, and Coach Hempy said she hopes to “keep the momentum going” and that the girls “continue to enjoy it.” There are many opportunities to support the girls volleyball team, all are encouraged to attend their big match against San Marcos on Oct. 7. If you are interested in supporting the team, check out the SBHS Webstore and look for the category “Girls Volleyball Donation.”