In a remarkable display of skill and teamwork, the Unionville girls’ volleyball team handed Downingtown West their first loss of the season with a decisive 3-0 victory on March 10, 2024. This match, held on the road, marks the second time in just four days that Unionville has delivered a loss to a key rival in the Ches-Mont League. Previously, they defeated Bishop Shanahan in a similar straight-sets triumph.
Match Breakdown
The Longhorns showcased their dominance early, claiming the first set with a score of 25-14. The second set proved to be more competitive, featuring multiple lead changes and ties, but Unionville ultimately secured it 25-20. They capped off the match with a commanding 25-12 victory in the third set, improving their record to 4-0 in the Ches-Mont League and 5-0 overall. Meanwhile, the Whippets fell to 2-1 in the league and 4-1 overall.
“It always feels good to get a win and to be undefeated,” said Unionville coach Stephanie Dunn. “But we know there’s a lot of work to do. We’ve played in some tournaments, and there are a lot of good teams out there.”
The Van Deusen sisters once again led Unionville’s charge. Stalena Van Deusen recorded 12 kills, while Holland Van Deusen contributed 26 assists and seven kills. The Longhorns also benefited from strong performances at the net by middle blockers Maeve Stokes and Lucy Weeber. “We’re very fortunate to have some strong middles,” Dunn noted. “Both of them are very dynamic. They put up big blocks. I’m glad to have them both on the court.”
Key Moments in the Match
The first set began with a competitive edge, as the teams were tied 2-2 before Unionville gained control. Despite aggressive blocking efforts from Downingtown West’s frontcourt players, such as Maya Sanders and Leah Hampson, the Longhorns found ways to score. Unionville earned several points through strategic plays, including deft dink shots that eluded the Whippets’ defense. Stalena Van Deusen’s strong finish with three kills in the final moments of the set sealed the deal.
The second set saw seven ties and six lead changes. After Downingtown West took a brief lead, Unionville responded with four consecutive points, regaining control. Stokes and Weeber delivered crucial winners at the net, bringing Unionville to set point. Despite a late rally from the Whippets, Holland Van Deusen’s final point ensured the Longhorns entered the third set with a 2-0 lead.
“When we come out like we did in the first set, teams respond. They start to figure things out and were a little more competitive in that second set,” Dunn reflected. “We need to keep playing at the same level the whole way through, from start to finish.”
The third set began closely contested, but Unionville quickly pulled ahead, winning six straight points off of Genna Gaughan’s serve. They maintained their momentum, reaching a match point at 24-12. Holland Van Deusen finished the match with a service winner, solidifying Unionville’s standing as a formidable force in the league.
“It’s great,” Stalena Van Deusen said, expressing her excitement about the team’s unbeaten record. “Hopefully, it can last all season.”
Looking ahead, Downingtown West will seek redemption on March 13, 2024, when they visit West Chester Henderson. Meanwhile, Unionville aims to continue their winning streak as they host Kennett on the same day, followed by a matchup against state semifinalist Padua Academy of Delaware on March 15, 2024.