Huddle up: Gig Harbor volleyball team shows intensity in league championship

Marques Hunter

of the Gateway

The Gig Harbor vs. Olympia volleyball match last Thursday authenticates my love for competition.

You couldn’t have been more entertained by these high-caliber Narrows League squads. It has to rank as one of the best volleyball matches of the year. It was arguably the most intense sporting events I’ve seen this fall.

I was glued to the action as the No. 3 ranked Bears clashed with the No. 7 Tides. What made the match even better was the fact a league championship was up for grabs.

Despite Gig Harbor losing in five games 23-25, 25-20, 25-22, 24,26, 15-13, I was extremely impressed with both team’s relentless defense and overall desire to win.

Competition brings out the best in teams. The Bears — facing defeat in game 4 trailing 22-17 — frantically fought back and simply found a way to win.

In the final game — when Olympia seemingly had it won — Gig Harbor stormed back by scoring four straight points and trailed 14-13.

I had to stand up to watch game 5 because my adrenaline was pumping. It was the most heated volleyball battle I had ever seen.

There were countless lead changes. Powerful spikes were met with perfectly timed blocks. Bodies were flying in efforts to save the last ball. Every point was a grind. The effort displayed between both teams was incredible. Each point carried its own story. Tie after tie, lead change after lead change, the match unfolded into an epic showdown.

And that’s when it hits you.

I absolutely love when two teams of equal talent go head-to-head. The volleyball court was transformed into a war zone. It was a battle to the very end.

The match captured every element that surrounds the essence of competition. It was well executed high school competition between the league’s top teams.

I never knew prep volleyball contained so much energy.

There’s nothing more enjoyable to watch than teams fight to the end for the sweet success of victory.

Despite a tough loss for Gig Harbor, they picked up useful experience they can apply down the road. The loss provided insight on how to improve for the playoffs.

I always believed that losing close games makes you a tougher team. Keep your heads up Gig Harbor volleyball players, another tough match is sure to come along and you will be better equipped to make the correct adjustments.

Reach sports reporter Marques Hunter at 253-853-9246 or by e-mail at marques.hunter@gateline.com.