Golden West played its final match of the season and ended it in style with a 25-13, 25-22, 25-23 sweep of San Diego Mesa at home.

Right out of the gate, Golden West (10-9, 6-6) took it to San Diego Mesa (4-14, 3-8), dominating them in all facets of the game. At one point, the Rustlers were leading 20-4. The Olympians did show some fight going on a mini run at the end, but it was not enough and the Rustlers cruised to victory.

Golden West sat some starters for the second set and San Diego Mesa took advantage. The entire set was close as the Rustlers were never able to pull away thanks to errors. Fortunately, Golden West was able to sustain at 2 point lead after the twentieth point en route to the set victory.

The third set was neck-and-neck the whole way as neither team could establish momentum. San Diego Mesa was able to tie the set at 21 and had a lead late. Thankfully, momentum swung back toward Golden West and Garrett Covey was able to end the match on 2 straight aces.

Sophomores Kevin Gorence, Michael Vargas, Garrett Covey, DJ Koenen and Lenzie Ainsworth played in their final match as a Ruslter. Gorence made the biggest impact on offense leading the team with 152 kills and 20 service aces. Covey was a true dual threat compiling 121 kills and helped out the offense with 435 assists. Vargas was also a great help to the offense this season recording 302 assists and made an impact from the back line with 16 aces. Koenen proved to be an impenetrable wall at the net leading the team with 77 total blocks. Ainsworth was given the start and performed well in his final match recording 2 kills, 3 blocks and 3 digs.

Since this was the final match of the season, Golden West was unable to clinch a playoff spot and defend its CCCAA State Championship. On a positive note, things are looking up for next season as playmakers like Bert Peyton, Jared Chasse, Lalau Togagae, Alvin Truong and Jarrett Neal will return to help reclaim the state title.

Written By
Kyle Infante