Youth Sports: O.C. girls’ volleyball teams have strong showings at Junior Olympics

Two girls’ youth teams from A4 Volleyball (Orange County), which included players from Laguna Beach, turned in strong performances at the 2015 USA Volleyball Junior National Championships.

The Junior Olympics were held June 25-July 2 in New Orleans.

The 13s and 15s Purple teams, both coached by Laguna Beach High girls’ volleyball coach Raul Papaleo, were among four A4 girls’ teams to qualify for the national event.

The 13s Purple team was one match short of playing for a medal. The squad placed fifth in the American Division and its roster included Thurston Middle School students Peri Brennan (setter), Hallie Carballo (outside hitter) and Maya Satchell (right-side).

The 13s Purple team had qualified for New Orleans by winning the gold medal (American Division) at the Southern California National Qualifier.

The 13s went 10-0 and won 20 straight sets at the qualifier, Papaleo said.

“Going undefeated and winning the qualifier definitely was an accomplishment and highlight of the season for the team,” Papaleo said. “The three girls from Thurston (Brennan, Carballo, Satchell) definitely played a key role in our success.”

The 15s Purple team placed 14th (USA Division) at the national tournament. The team, which included Charlie Hoffs and Delaney Basile of Laguna.

Papaleo said Hoffs and Basile, both outside hitters, played last year on the Laguna Beach High girls’ frosh/soph team.

— From staff reports