UPDATE: In a stunning display of resilience and teamwork, the Palisades Dolphins have triumphed over the Venice Gondoliers to clinch the City Section Open Division girls’ volleyball championship with a decisive score of 25-23, 25-18, 25-18 at Southwest College on October 27, 2023. This victory marks Palisades’ record-breaking 31st section title and their first since 2019.
The intensity was palpable as these two Western League rivals faced off for the fifth time this season, but this match held greater significance than neighborhood pride. As the clock ticked down, Palisades’ Tulah Block delivered the final blow, sealing the championship with her seventh and game-winning kill.
“I just knew I had to do it for the team,” Block exclaimed after the match. “I’m so proud of the whole team, especially with everything we went through.” The Dolphins faced unprecedented challenges this season, including losing their gym due to fire damage, even resorting to beach practices to prepare for this moment.
Palisades, finishing the season with an impressive record of 35-7, fought hard to reach the finals, knocking out formidable opponents such as Granada Hills and defending champions Taft. In contrast, Venice (32-11) also showcased their strength by eliminating top contenders Chatsworth and El Camino Real to secure their place in the championship match.
The final match saw both teams showcasing their skills, with Palisades overcoming a 19-16 deficit in the first set and rallying back from a 13-7 deficit in the third, spurred on by stellar serving from Phoebe Messiha. Venice’s Samantha Lortie and Savannah Rozell held their ground, with Lortie contributing 11 kills and Rozell adding vital support.
“Our slogan all year was ‘no gym, no problem,’” said Palisades senior libero Lucy Neilson. “Today we came with a ‘leave it all out there’ mentality.” This victory is particularly meaningful for Palisades, who have faced numerous obstacles over the past few years.
The matchup was not just a test of skill but also a testament to perseverance. In a season where the West Valley League has historically dominated, both Palisades and Venice defied expectations to reach the final, making this championship a landmark event for both schools.
In the preceding Division V final, fifth-seeded Legacy also made headlines by sweeping Sotomayor with scores of 25-20, 25-18, 25-12, securing their first City title. The determination shown by all teams involved illustrates the spirit of competition in girls’ volleyball, making this a season to remember.
As Palisades celebrates this hard-fought victory, the volleyball community reflects on the resilience and dedication that brought these young athletes to the forefront. The championship win not only solidifies their legacy but also inspires future generations to overcome challenges and strive for excellence.
With this championship concluded, all eyes will now turn to next season, hopeful for even more thrilling matches and remarkable stories in high school volleyball.