The volleyball team from Laguna-Acoma High School under the coaching of Melanie Garcia reached the coveted final four this past weekend and lost in the final four to the eventual state champion, Texico High School, in three sets (2513,25-23,25-11).
The Hawks defeated Raton in the first round of the state tournament 3-0. They also defeated Tucamcari 3-0 in the second round and lost to Legacy Academy 3-0 in the third round of a double elimination tournament. They came back and defeated Raton 3-1 to make it to the final four where they lost to Texico.
“Hard work and dedication, it all starts in the offseason and preseason—- and you need maintain the intensity all season long in all your games,” said Garcia of the team’s success this year. This year’s seniors, a total of 6 seniors, were crucial to the success this year according to Garcia. “They are work horses and play smart as well—they are go-getters—they don’t quit,” said Garcia of what was a crucial element in this year’s success. Garcia also had praise for the seniors showing the underclassmen how to play and stay focused and “get the job done.” Garcia was pleased with this year’s success.
Next year is a reset, I do need a new setter, Sophia Lazos, this year’s setter was by all accounts an exceptional setter. As far as next year Garcia said, “Our district is not as strong but we do compete.”
In addition to Lazos, the four other seniors graduating this year are Myla Yazzie, Gianna Carillo, Kaylee Lorenzo, Amaya Joe and Madelyn Brown.