Sports

Undefeated Peninsula volleyball team sets sights on state championship at SunDome

When Peninsula volleyball coach Katrina Cardinal speaks of her team this season, she has to fight to hold back tears. Why? Because these Seahawks are special.

Led by a strong core of six seniors — Lauren Wittmers, Tommi Gallucci, Brynn Smith, Kadence Stoddard, Madeline Shea and Samantha Ford — the Seahawks have been perfect all season, with an 18-0 record.

They entered the 3A state tournament today in the Yakima Valley SunDome as the No.2 team, behind only Lakeside. They open their quest for a state title at 1:30 p.m. against the No. 18 seed, Eastlake Catholic.

It is fitting that the letters “BWAF” are posted in the Peninsula High School gym. They represent the phrase “Because We Are Family,” and for this team, being like a family could not be more true.

“We are like a group of sisters,” Shea said.

The six seniors said they have all been playing together for the last four years and they have grit, chemistry, a willingness to be there for one another and they enjoy winning.

While Cardinal agrees there is an unbelievable bond among the group of seniors, she attributes the teams’ success this season to an entire team effort.

“We have incredible leadership, not just from seniors but from the young players as well,” she said. “We have a really talented group of volleyball players, but the most important part is we have a group of players that love each other and respect each other like sisters.”

“It’s a really cool vibe,” added Cardinal. “This is not just about volleyball, this is about the relationships they are building.”

During the regular season. the Seahawks went 14-0 and never lost more than a game during a match. In fact, they only lost a game three times.

Peninsula then cruised through the district playoffs, knocking off Kentlake, Kelso and Auburn Riverside 3-0, 3-1 and 3-1, respectively, en route to the title.

“Everyone on our team knows their role,” Gallucci said. “After last season, not having a full season, we have the drive this year. We have all pushed each other. This is our last season together, and we are going to leave it all on the court.”

According to Cardinal, the six seniors all bring something different to the team and all have played a special part in the success.

Stoddard, a middle blocker, has worked her way through the ranks to become a captain. She makes everyone feel like part of the team. She brought a camaraderie to the team that Cardinal says is special.

Gallucci provides grit, and a never-lose attitude on every point. From her freshman year she has exhibited a fighting mentality.

Smith is the comedian who injects fun and laughter into everything.

Like Gallucci, Smith brings the fight, but in a protective, “don’t-mess-with-my-girls” type of way, and is loud on the court.

Shea and Wittmers exude calm energy, and are players everyone roots for.

“This has been the best senior season any of us could ask for,” Gallucci said, “We want this season to end with a win at the dome.”