No game write-up could possibly capture the emotion or energy of Saturday’s match against Choate. In the end Deerfield prevailed in five closely-fought sets in front of a huge crowd from both schools.
With the gym decorated for senior day, both teams honored their graduating seniors before the first whistle. For Deerfield that meant giving thanks to our managers, Frances Shea and Raheme Taylor, and our four senior players: Nat Jimenez, Izzy McDonald, Lara Akande, and Camila Navarro.
Once the match started, Deerfield struggled initially in serve-receive before settling in and taking the lead. Longer service runs from Rosa Sun ‘21, Camila Navarro ‘20, and Georgia Sackrey ‘23 allowed Deerfield to win the set, 25-15.
In the second set, it was Deerfield who got out to an early lead before Choate was able to chip away at the advantage and tie the score at 17-17. The teams traded points before Deerfield was able to take the set, 26-24.
The 3rd set saw Deerfield struggle with serving and passing and Choate took advantage with their stronger play. Down 15-21, Deerfield pushed Choate and looked like they might be able to take the set, but Choate was able to close out the set, 23-25.
The 4th set featured long rallies from both teams that tested everyone’s energy and stamina. The fans were loud, the benches were yelling, and the play on the court from both teams was strong. Again the score went past 25 and Choate was able to force a deciding set, 24-26.
It looked like it might be a repeat of last year’s five-set victory for Choate, especially as Choate got out to a 3-7 lead, but Deerfield had other ideas. With a final kill from Evan Burkert ‘21, Deerfield won the set 15-13 and the home fans stormed the court.
Huge congratulations to the Choate volleyball team for the well-played, high-quality match. It was a great showcase of talented volleyball from both teams.
With the victory, Deerfield qualifies for the New England prep school Class A tournament. Their next match will be on Wednesday with their opponent determined by the seeding committee this weekend. Go Big Green!!