UPDATE: In a thrilling showdown, the Palisades Dolphins triumphed over the Venice Gondoliers to claim the City Section Open Division girls’ volleyball championship on October 27, 2023, with a decisive score of 25-23, 25-18, 25-18 at Southwest College. This victory marks Palisades’ record-breaking 31st section title and their first championship win since 2019.
Tension ran high in this crucial match, the fifth encounter this season between the fierce Western League rivals. The second-seeded Dolphins showcased their determination, especially after overcoming significant challenges, including a devastating fire that impacted their gym facilities. Senior star Tulah Block delivered the match-winning kill, igniting euphoric celebrations among her teammates. “Going up for that kill, I just knew I had to do it for the team,” Block stated. “I’m so proud of the whole team, especially with everything we went through.”
Both teams entered the match having defeated strong opponents from the West Valley League to reach the final. Palisades eliminated Granada Hills and the defending champions Taft, while Venice ousted Chatsworth and El Camino Real. The Gondoliers, who previously won the Open Division in 2021, proved to be formidable foes, but Palisades’ resilience shone through.
Senior libero Lucy Neilson emphasized the team’s mantra: “Our slogan all year was ‘no gym, no problem.’ Today we came with a ‘leave it all out there’ mentality.” The Dolphins rallied from a 19-16 deficit in the opening set, showcasing their competitive spirit and strategic prowess.
Venice fought valiantly, with standout performances from players like Samantha Lortie and Anabelle Redaelli, who each delivered impressive kills throughout the match. However, Palisades’ defense and powerful serves proved decisive. Neilson reflected on the significance of the win, stating, “Winning it this season is special given the obvious circumstances and it had to be against Venice.”
In a separate match earlier, the fifth-seeded Legacy Tigers swept Sotomayor to win the Division V title, with scores of 25-20, 25-18, 25-12. This victory marked both teams’ quests for their first City title. Legacy libero Yahaira Ramirez celebrated their achievement, commenting, “We’re here because we pushed for it. I love my position. I save my team a lot of points.”
As the volleyball season concludes, the incredible journey of Palisades speaks volumes about perseverance and teamwork, making their championship win not just a celebration of skill, but also of resilience in the face of adversity. Fans and supporters eagerly share the news, celebrating a momentous victory that brings renewed pride to the Palisades community.
This urgent update highlights the latest in city sports, with the Palisades Dolphins firmly establishing their legacy in the City Section volleyball arena.
