Mira Costa’s boys volleyball team continues what could be the most demanding week of the regular season.
After splitting a two-match series in Hawaii against powerhouse teams in the Clash of the Titans tournament, Mira Costa head coach Mike Ninnis’ squad returned to the mainland to prepare for a critical match against Bay League foe Palos Verdes and a traditional battle against non-league rival Loyola.
After a disappointing 25-21, 20-25, 25-23, 25-21 loss to a strong Punahou team on Friday night, Mira Costa rebounded Saturday to defeat Kamehameha 27-29, 25-19, 25-18, and 25-17 in what is recognized as one of the premier tournaments in the country by ESPN Rise.
“It was nice to end the trip with a win,” Ninnis said. “Nobody played particularly well against Punahou, but it was good to see Scott Stephanoff back on the court Saturday night after being out with a back injury for a few matches.”
The loss to Punahou was only the second of the year for Mira Costa (12-2) which also fell to CIF Southern Section Division 1 rival San Clemente in the Best of the West tournament in early March.
The Mustangs are ranked No. 3 in Division 1 behind San Clemente and Loyola and one spot ahead of Palos Verdes.
“Playing in Hawaii made us realize how much better we need to be to get where we want to win Bay League and CIF titles,” Ninnis said. “Playing in The Clash of the Titans is a great experience for the team and their families, Punahou is a terrific host for the event and, even though our kids don’t play very well in the first match after lounging in the Waikiki sun all day, our squad is now 100 percent focused on our upcoming match against PV, where the winner will remain undefeated in the Bay League title race.”
Stephanoff, who was named to the All-CIF team last year, is a vital cog for the Mira Costa team that won CIF and Southern California Regional championships last season.
Outside hitters Riley Mallon and Casey White continue to improve while Connor Inlow, Miles Johnson and Ryan Kaseff provide a strong game in the middle.
Setter Grant Chalmers and libero Dylan Shambaugh have filled the shoes of graduated All-CIF members Jackson Carr and Brooks Varni, respectively.
Mira Costa hosts Palos Verdes Thursday at 3:15 p.m. and will take on Loyola Friday in a 7 p.m. match to be held at Loyola Marymount University. The Mustangs continue Bay League action Tuesday when they host Peninsula in a 3:15 p.m. contest.
After losses to Mira Costa and Palos Verdes, Redondo will attempt to stay in the Bay League race with road victories over Peninsula on Thursday and West Torrance on Tuesday. Both matches are scheduled for 4:30 p.m.
