From LBPOSTSports.com: There was skin on the wood in the first set, and sweat and tears by the finish, as the Wilson Bruins swept the Bosco Braves in an emotional CIF Quarterfinal match, 25-19, 25-15, 25-21. It was impossible not to be impressed with Wilson’s proficiency and intensity, and with Bosco’s heart—the Braves recently suffered the death of classmate and friend to many players, Patrick Romey, a Bosco senior who was killed with his parents a few weeks ago in a car accident.
Since entering the playoffs, Bosco had been playing on an emotional tidal wave—they came in as an at-large entry, and knocked off Sunset League champ Newport Harbor in the first round, and a stacked San Clemente team in round two. That brought them to Wilson, a team also known for an intense style of play. “They took out some fabulous teams,” said Bruins coach Susan Pescar. “We were worried they’d take us out too.”
The Braves didn’t, but you can’t say they didn’t try—the first set of Thursday evening’s quarterfinal match was as intense a set of volleyball as we’ve seen all year. Both teams were fully willing to sacrifice their bodies on the floor, and the squeal of skin on hardwood was cacophonous, drowned out only by the thunderous roar of the Bosco fans.
Wilson’s high-flying power, coupled with the on-floor dedication of libero Brandon Fuimaono, let them break a 3-3 tie with an 8-0 run, which they rode to the first set victory. Players on both sides were drenched in sweat at the first intermission.
Click here for the rest of the article by Mike Guardabascio…