In a compelling season opener that showcased the promise and potential of both teams, the Deerfield JV Girls Volleyball squad triumphed over a tenacious Rectory team in a closely fought 3-0 match (25-14, 27-25, 25-16).

Blake Coleman ’27 got Deerfield off to a quick lead, delivering both a skillful kill and an ace, while Maisy Johnson ’26 and Allison Kostiuk ’25 provided some expertly timed sets. Not to be outdone, Rectory displayed a solid defense that had to be meticulously navigated by the Deerfield attackers. Devon Coleman ’25 and Olivia Smit ’25 also contributed aces for Deerfield, with Gracie Spencer ’25 providing a consistent presence on defense in the libero role.

The second set was a gripping battle. Deadlocked at 11-11, Johnson lofted a perfect set to Devon Coleman, who unleashed a ferocious kill. As tensions escalated and scores see-sawed, Silvie Sobotka ’26 found Devon Coleman for yet another kill that edged the Doors ahead at 19-18. But don’t count Rectory out just yet! They clawed their way back, tying the game at 21-21 with a rocket of an ace. However, on the next play, Alice Wu ’25 orchestrated a precise pass, leading to another Johnson-Coleman spectacle. With the score at 26-25, Sobotka stepped up to the line and iced the set with an ace that could only be described as “steely.”

Maisy Johnson opened up the third set with an impressive block kill, and a collective effort from Ariana Djunic ’26, Kostiuk, Smit, and both Colemans helped Deerfield to build a lead. Yet, it was clear Rectory had also found their rhythm, countering with some strong plays of their own and more well-placed serves. Djunic finished the match with an impressive seven kills for Deerfield, Kostiuk contributed nine aces, and Devon Coleman rounded out the performance with five kills and 12 aces, while Smit tallied three kills and three aces.