By Gene Helfman

Lopez hosted Cedar Park Christian Oct 23 for the Lobos seniors’ final game. Melissa Valencia and Amelia Patino were recognized before the game for their outstanding effort and invaluable leadership all season. Both shone in the ensuing play, with Lopez sweeping the match in three games. Lopez jumped out to a 7-0 lead in the first game and was never really threatened, the game ending Lobos 25, Eagles 17. The second game was a little closer, the score tied at five apiece before Lopez surged ahead on very strong serving, including multiple aces. Cedar Park rallied late, but the outcome was pretty much decided early on, the game ending 25-18 in favor of Lopez. After some back and forth early on, the third game followed a similar script, ending Lopez 25, Cedar Park 14.

Afterward, Coach Karrie Warner was thrilled with the performance, certainly the outcome but especially the level of play. “We cleaned up our serving and served so strong and did a lot better on blocking. Importantly, we’ve mastered the calm in the chaos that often develops on long points. It was a really solid win.”