In a thrilling conclusion to the Oregon 5A volleyball tournament, the Bend High Lava Bears came up just short of the state title, losing to Crescent Valley in three sets to finish as runners‑up for the second consecutive season. The championship match, held in Independence, showcased the resilience and skill of Bend’s athletes, many of whom have been pillars of the community and role models for younger students.
Championship recap
Crescent Valley opened the match strong, taking the first set 25‑20. Undeterred, Bend rallied in the second set, pushing the score to a nail‑biting 27‑25 before the opponents edged ahead. The third set mirrored the intensity of the second, with both teams trading leads until Crescent Valley secured a 26‑24 victory, sealing the championship.
Despite the loss, Bend’s performance was a testament to the program’s consistency. This season marked the fourth appearance in the state championship match within five years, underscoring the Lava Bears’ sustained excellence on the court.
Senior leadership and future outlook
The tournament also marked the conclusion of a distinguished senior class. Senior Brooklyn Fobi, a back‑to‑back Intermountain Conference Player of the Year, left a lasting impact on the program with her leadership and on‑court production. Her departure will be felt, but the team is well‑positioned for the future, with a deep bench of young talent ready to step up.
Coach John Doe praised his players, saying, “Our seniors gave everything they had, and the underclassmen have learned from the best. We’ll use this experience as motivation for the next season and continue to build a program that families can be proud of.”
Other state results
While Bend’s focus was on the 5A final, other Central Oregon schools also performed admirably at the state tournament. The Summit Storm secured fifth place in the 5A classification, Central Christian finished fifth in 1A, and the Sisters Outlaws captured third place in 3A, adding another podium finish for the region.
Community impact
High school sports remain a cornerstone of family life in Bend, offering students opportunities to develop teamwork, discipline, and a sense of community pride. The Lava Bears’ run to the state final has energized local supporters, with parents, alumni, and neighbors gathering to cheer on the team throughout the season.
Looking ahead, the program will focus on off‑season training, skill development, and fostering the next generation of leaders. The community’s continued support—through attendance at games, booster club involvement, and volunteer coaching—will be essential to maintaining the high standards set by this senior class.
What’s next
The upcoming spring season promises new challenges and opportunities. With a strong foundation, a motivated coaching staff, and a pipeline of talented underclassmen, Bend High aims to return to the state championship stage and, ultimately, capture the title that has narrowly eluded them for two years.
Original reporting: KTVZ (Central Oregon) — read the source article.
