On Thursday 30th of January the Cadette A volleyball team travelled with their coaches and loyal supporters to U.C.D for the All-Ireland final. Their opponents were Holy Family Newbridge. After they arrived and the Cadette C final had finished playing the team warmed up.
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The St.Marys team took an early lead in the first set with some terrific play from all the girls. The first time out was called by Newbridge at the score of 7-0 to St.Mary's. Play then resumed and the Newbridge team started to slowly catch up to them but the St.Mary's team were always ahead with their accurate serving and powerful attacks over the net. As a result of this, St.Mary's won the first set 25 to 14.
After a quick break it was time to start the second set. The Newbridge team came back stronger than before and were not going to lose this set without a fight. They played with real energy and determination. They all showed real skill with some excellent service and setting from both teams. However, in the end, it was Newbridge who won the second set 25 to 17.
After a pep-talk from their coaches, it was time to begin the third and final set. One could really feel the energy and excitement in the hall as the players battled on. The teams fought point for point as their supporters’ roars and cheers almost blew the roof off. There were some amazing attacks as well as strategic game play from both teams. They were neck and neck for a while before St.Marys took the lead with some real inspiring team work. In the end it was the St.Mary's team who were victorious with a score of 25-19
It was an amazing battle to witness from both teams but it was the St.Mary's teamwork, skill and determination that counted in the end. The team received their winners medals to wild applause from their dedicated supporters. Well done to all the girls on the Cadette A team but a special well done to Rica Garcia who won Player of the Match. A special thank you to all the students who came to support the team and it was their cheers and encouragement that helped the Cadette A team to clinch their fourth Cadette A title in a row.
St Mary's College, Naas 2 - 1 Holy Family, Newbridge (25-14, 17-25, 25-19) - Match report by Orla McEvoy