The Aptos High Mariners volleyball team continued to show toughness and growth in early October matchups, despite facing tough competition in the Santa Cruz Coast League.
On Wednesday, Oct. 9, Aptos fell in a narrow 3-1 decision to Scotts Valley, 25-18, 21-25, 21-25, 27-29. Junior outside hitter Ella Dueck led the Mariners with 18 kills, two aces, and four blocks. Senior OH Kenzie Smith added 12 kills, while sophomore middle blocker Caitlin Lavelle contributed six kills and two blocks. Freshman setter Cana Taylor recorded 15 assists.
“We played a close one against a solid Scotts Valley team, almost bringing it to five,” Aptos coach Hunter Zeng said. “Our block-defense looked good, starting strong in set one and giving our hitters opportunities. High-pressure games like this will set us up to peak in the postseason.”
Earlier in the week, Aptos rebounded with a 3-1 home victory over Soquel on Oct. 7, winning 24-26, 25-10, 25-22, 25-18. Dueck tallied 19 kills and three aces, and Smith added 15 kills. Taylor’s 18 assists and junior libero Elle Mumford’s six digs helped slow Soquel’s offense and set up consistent scoring.
“Our captains Kenzie and Ella played excellent volleyball from the left side pin, made possible by strong setting from Cana and Mady,” Zeng said. “Elle stepped in for her first start of the season and played great. Our service pressure and block-defense connection were key.”
The Mariners opened the month with a 3-0 loss at Harbor on Oct. 2, but Zeng praised the team’s growth. “We stormed out to a 12-2 lead in the first set, taking Harbor by surprise,” he said. “Ellie Hardesty had an outstanding night hitting near .600. This was a much better showing than our first matchup. Second-round league play should be interesting — it’s anyone’s game most nights.”