The season came down to a true “cat-fight” on October 25 as the Panthers of Pinewood Prep defeated the Panthers of Ashley Hall to win the SCISA state volleyball title.

The bleachers filled with cheering fans, some with blue and some with purple, at Porter Gaud’s Gym, wet from the rain, watched as the Panthers of Pinewood took on the Panthers of Ashley Hall.

Ashley Hall was defeated by Pinewood two weeks prior to the championship game. However, Pinewood had lost to Ashley Hall two consecutive years in the championship game and the team felt ready to take the next step---- a state championship.

“We weren’t overconfident, but felt like we were going to win,” senior outside-hitter, Megan Haupt, said. “We had great respect for Ashley Hall, but we had faith we would beat them. We knew the game was going to come down to that had the most desire and determination. Going to school last year after we lost was embarrassing and we did not want to experience that again.”

Heading into the title match coach Pat Eidson felt his squad was physically and mentally ready for the task ahead.

“In the locker room the girls had determination to win the game,” Edison, said. “The seniors this year showed good leadership and have played together for three state championship, I will miss them next year and I wish them luck in the next step of their life.”

Pinewood took control of the match early and cruised to a 2-0 set lead before finding themselves down 24-20 in the third game. The Panthers then reeled off six consecutive points to win the match and the title.

“The last match was crucial and it showed everybody how much heart and determination this team has,” Eidson said.

One thing Edison and members of his team believe helped the girls through the tough games this season was the “Superfans.” The Superfans are a group of Pinewood’s most spirited and well-dressed fans.

“The Superfans are inspirational and in many cases they helped us when we got down,” senior outside-hitter, Adriane Miler, said. “Without them, we could not have done as well as we did.”

It shows that not only the parents are backing the girls playing, but also their fellow peers support them.

“In the fifteen years that I have been at Pinewood, this game had to be the best student support that we have had at a game, it may not have been the best crowd support, but it was the best student support,” Eidson said.

After the game was completed Pinewood fans stormed the court in a mad rush of excitement. As fans surrounded the tear-filled-eyes of the victorious players many breathed a sigh of relief.

Junior Jasmin Brooks, who hit the game winning point, was overcome by the excitement.

“It was awesome. The roar of the crowd got us pumped and the Superfans support meant a lot to us. It was unbelievable when the crowd rushed the court to celebrate with us.”



A LOOK INSIDE THE NUMBERS:

1,500 people in attendance

27-5 overall season record

12 team members

9 Superfans

8 Region teams

7 wins out of 11 sets with Ashley Hall

3 times meeting in a state championship game with Ashley Hall

1 State Championship