SAN DIEGO, CA (11/15/2024) -- After a three-year drought, the San Diego Mesa College women's volleyball team reclaimed their spot at the summit of the Pacific Coast Athletic Conference (PCAC), capturing their first championship since 2021. Ending the reign of rival Grossmont College, who had dominated the conference in the interim, the Olympians finished the 2024 regular season with an overall record of 23-1, including a flawless 16-0 run in conference play.
A Historic Comeback
Mesa's season was defined by dominance and redemption. Their return to the top of the conference wasn't just about winning; it was about reestablishing their legacy. The Olympians swept 14 of their 16 conference opponents in straight sets, a testament to their consistency and overwhelming talent.
The rivalry with Grossmont added extra significance to their campaign. On October 18, Mesa secured a hard-fought four-set victory at Grossmont, erasing any doubt that they were the team to beat this year. That pivotal win was one of many highlights in a season marked by team-wide contributions and individual brilliance.
Stellar Performances Across the Board
- Bella Town was an offensive juggernaut, leading the team with 147 kills, averaging 3.13 per set, and making an impact on defense with 20 blocks.
- Halen Kiefer provided critical firepower, tallying 117 kills and contributing in key moments.
- Setter Jaiden Mojica expertly managed the offense, racking up 402 assists and averaging a stellar 9.35 assists per set.
- Defensive anchor Lia Go ensured the backcourt was impenetrable, amassing 132 digs while providing stability under pressure.
Across the court, the Olympians excelled in every statistical category, leading the conference in kills per set (11.88), digs per set (16.77), and hitting percentage (.263). Their defense limited opponents to a dismal .071 hitting percentage, suffocating any chance of sustained rallies.
A Season to Remember
Mesa opened their season with a 3-0 sweep of Cuyamaca and never looked back. Their only loss came early, in a five-set non-conference thriller at Long Beach, but it served as a catalyst for their 14-match win streak to close out the regular season.
Notable performances throughout the season included their thrilling comeback win against Palomar on October 4, where they rallied from two sets down to win 3-2. Another memorable moment came on Senior Night, as the Olympians swept Imperial Valley in dominant fashion to punctuate their perfect conference record.
Looking Ahead
With their regular season dominance complete, the Olympians now set their sights on the postseason. As they prepare for the playoffs, the San Diego Mesa College women's volleyball team carries not only the pride of reclaiming the conference title but also the momentum of a near-perfect season. With their talent and determination, they are poised to make an impact on the state stage.