Mater Dei Shocks Sierra Canyon, Secures Spot in State Championship | PRIMENEWSNOW

Mater Dei’s Quest for State Glory

After narrowly missing a third straight Southern Section title, the Mater Dei High girls’ volleyball team quickly shifted focus to the state championship. Their determination paid off as they defeated top-seeded Sierra Canyon, 20-25, 25-16, 25-22, 25-16, in the Southern California Regional Open Division final on Tuesday night in Chatsworth.

Key Players and Strategies

Leading the charge was outside hitter Westley Matavao, who delivered 18 kills. She praised her cousin, Missouri-bound setter Lucky Fasavalu, for her skillful play. “We’re family, and I admire her game. She knows how to orchestrate an offense,” said Matavao, who has committed early to UCLA. “After our previous loss, we were determined to come out strong tonight.”

Decisive Moments

Addison Coady’s powerful kill concluded the third set, and Mater Dei surged to a seven-point lead early in the fourth, ensuring Sierra Canyon couldn’t mount a comeback. “Our confidence and energy were evident,” Matavao noted. “We targeted specific serves and positioned ourselves well for blocking.”

Upcoming Challenge

Mater Dei aims for its third state Open Division title at 6:30 p.m. Saturday at Santiago Canyon College in Orange. They will face Northern California champion Rocklin, who upset top-seeded Archbishop Mitty in a five-set thriller.

Team Contributions

Layli Ostovar contributed 14 kills and 21 digs, Emma Kingston added 10 kills and six blocks, Lizzy Robinson had 19 digs, Kalea Lee provided 24 assists, Sam Capinpin had 17 assists, and Jael Smith recorded six blocks.

Breaking Streaks

Not only did the Monarchs avenge their section final loss, but they also ended Sierra Canyon’s 19-match winning streak, handing the Trailblazers (41-4) their only defeat in California this season.

Historical Context

Mater Dei initially won its first nine encounters with Sierra Canyon before falling in the Southern Section Division 1 final on Nov. 8 at Cerritos College. This victory halted Sierra Canyon’s bid for a fourth section title and Mater Dei’s quest for a three-peat under head coach Dan O’Dell.

Mater Dei previously claimed state Open Division titles in 2018 and 2023.