In the opening night of the Channel League, the Santa Barbara Dons women’s volleyball team delivered a dramatic five‑set win over the Ventura Mustangs, taking the match 3‑2 with set scores of 19‑25, 26‑24, 19‑25, 25‑19, 15‑7.
Key performances fuel Dons’ comeback
Senior outside hitter Blake Saunders was a force on the court, recording 14 kills and 13 digs, showcasing both offensive firepower and defensive tenacity. Setter Jules Horton orchestrated the offense, logging an impressive 39 assists, adding 14 digs, 5 kills and 4 service aces. Their combined effort helped the Dons overcome a 2‑1 deficit and close out the match in the final set.
Coach Emily Curry praised the team’s resilience, noting that the victory reflects the growing chemistry among the players. “It was a great showing for our first league game, and I’m excited to see what we can accomplish from here,” Curry said. “This team is really starting to gel together and play as a unit. We’re learning how to trust each other, compete together, and find ways to win as a team.”
Other Channel League results
In the same evening of competition, the Oxnard Royals fell to San Marcos 0‑3, with freshman forward Harper Dees leading Oxnard with eight kills. San Marcos secured the win with set scores of 19‑25, 20‑25, 23‑25.
Across the Pacific View League, the Dos Pueblos Chargers dominated Channel Islands 3‑0. Charlize Welch powered the Chargers with 16 kills, and the team closed the match with scores of 25‑12, 25‑8, 27‑25.
Meanwhile, in the Tri‑Valley League, the St. Bonaventure Cardinals fell to Bishop Diego 1‑3. Despite a standout performance from Karina Urzua, who tallied 34 kills and 35 digs, the Cardinals could not overcome Bishop Diego, which improved its league record to 3‑1 and overall record to 10‑4.
Looking ahead
The Dons improve to 9‑6 on the season and will look to build on this hard‑fought win as the Channel League schedule progresses. Their next matchup will test the depth and consistency that proved decisive against Ventura.
Fans are encouraged to attend upcoming games at the Santa Barbara High School gymnasium, where the Dons will continue to showcase the teamwork and determination that have become hallmarks of their program.
Original reporting: KEYT (Ventura/Santa Barbara) — read the source article.
