Bourne Volleyball Claims State Title, Sweeping Whitinsville Christian in Div. 5 Final
WORCESTER – The Bourne Canalmen volleyball team, led by head coach David Moore, secured their first state title since 2018, triumphing over No. 2 Whitinsville Christian in a decisive 3-0 victory (25-18, 25-21, 27-25) in the Division 5 state final held on Thursday night.
After a heartbreaking loss in last year’s final, Bourne returned to the championship with renewed focus and determination, highlighted by a roster brimming with talent and experience. The top-seeded Canalmen finished the season with an impressive 20-5 record.
Coach Moore emphasized that while the state title was a significant goal, the team’s primary focus throughout the season was improvement. “I’m just really proud of them. It was fun to be a part of,” he remarked, highlighting the team’s perseverance and teamwork.
Bourne’s victory was marked by strong serving, with six aces contributing to their success, and a well-balanced offensive strategy that outmatched Whitinsville’s defense. Junior Sofia Halunen led the charge with 17 assists and 13 kills, joined by fellow juniors Michaela Muldoon (14 assists, 7 kills) and Nola Timo (7 kills), providing ample support. Notably, junior Lily Russell scored the final point of the match, capping off an intense contest.
As the match progressed, Whitinsville Christian posed challenges, notably taking a lead at one point in the third set. Still, Bourne regrouped and pushed through their struggles, ultimately clinching the victory. Reflecting on the team’s journey, Halunen stated, “The heart that our team had is the core of this group.”
This championship win underscores the hard work and unity of a team that, as Coach Moore noted, has been nurtured since their freshman year—“a unique group” that never gives up.
Source
Photo credit www.bostonherald.com
