Alissa Wisniewski
City Times

The first home game for the San Diego City College women’s volleyball team was a cause for celebration as the Knights defeated the Mt. San Jacinto Eagles.

Though the Knights won the match, it was a battle as the teams traded the lead and kept the score close throughout. The Knights won the first set 30-27 and the second set 30-29.

The Knights took advantage of their fluidity as a team and played off of each other. Erin Bull accepted her teammates’ lobs and sent pulverizing spikes to the Eagles side, who were unable to stop these assaults, resulting in major points for the Knights.

By alternating between these spikes and light tips over the net, the Knights put their athleticism on display and secured the win. The Eagles seemed to be on hyper drive, unable to slow down enough to counteract these changeups.

This is a good start to the season considering the Knights finished last season with a 6-13 record. Head Coach Dede Bodnar likes the team dynamic and believes this will benefit them this season.

“We have a great bunch of athletes who not only love to play the game, but they get along better than any team I’ve ever had,” said Bodnar.

This was evident during the match. After each successful rally, the girls would shoot the ground with their hands and yell “boom!” They also offered reassurances and high-fives after each unsuccessful rally.

Both teams played with an intensity that made the audience tense, with clenched fists and darting eyes that could barely follow the ball. There were exciting volleys that allowed these players to showcase their passion.

The Knights hope to continue the celebration at their next home game against Irvine Valley College in the Harry West gym on Friday Sept. 14 at five in the evening.