Golden West squad on top ... again

Mike Sciacca

For the 11th consecutive year and 13th time in the past 14 years,

Golden West College reigns supreme in women’s volleyball.

The Rustlers won the school’s 15th overall state title Sunday when

they defeated Irvine Valley College in three games in the

championship final on Irvine Valley’s home court.

The 30-21, 30-23, 30-13 victory capped a 22-0 season for Golden

West.

It was the first time that Irvine Valley had reached the state

final.

“This was about as smooth a season as I’ve had with a team,” said

Albert Gasparian, who won his 15th State title in his 21st year as

head coach of the Wrestlers. “This is a low-key group, overall, one

that is very business-like and steady.”

Sophomore Ashley Jensen, a 6-foot-1 middle blocker, was named

state tournament MVP for the second consecutive year.

Jensen recorded 16 kills and eight blocks in the title match.

“She’s just a very good all-round player,” Gasparian said of the

heavily-recruited Jensen. “She’s very physical, aggressive and

competitive, and she sets the tone on the court.”

Sophomore outside hitter Nicole Ryan had 13 kills against the

Lazers, Rachel Gerling had 10 kills, nine digs and two service aces,

freshman middle blocker Taylor Love had seven kills and seven blocks,

freshman Cheryl Silenek had 16 digs and freshman setter Chelsea

Carroll had 46 assists.