The eighth grade girls, who ended the regular season 22-2 and co-section winners, headed into the playoffs with a mission: to win it all.

In the first round, we were unfortunately matched against St. Aidan's other eighth grade team. The gym was packed, and both teams played well, but only one team could advance to the next round. In the second round we faced Our Lady of Victory. The girls did not look sharp but held together to win the important third game. Next stop, the finals at Molloy College. Long Beach, the other co-section winner, had taken two of three games from us during the regular season. They were also the Defending Champions. There lies the challenge. I could see from the start the team was ready to play. Lauren Raffetto, Amy Kemmler and Sarah Bancone protected the back court, and continuously bumped the ball to our setters. Nicole Lapin, Erin O'Neil and Joanna Cohen were always ready and made some beautiful sets. This gave Michele Guido, Juliet Barber, Kaitlyn O'Neil and Katie Keegan spiking opportunities which they gladly converted to points. They won the first two games 15-4 15-3 and the championship was theirs.

Ten weeks ago, when we first started practice I set a goal, to try and improve at least one part of every girls play. Consistent serving, bumping at setter, setter to spiker and even blocking attempts. Both their parents and I agree they have improved tremendously. Who says hard work doesn't pay off! The girls and I wish to thank their parents, for the late night practices, driving to games all over Nassau County and the extra kink in their very busy schedule. Without you none of this would have been possible. I look forward to watching you play in high school and hope we can do this again next year.