By Kyle LoJacono
The Steinbrenner volleyball team went 4-0 en route to claiming the Fivay Volleyball Classic.
The Warriors (14-3) defeated Nature Coast 25-13, 25-23 in the finals on Oct. 1, capping off a week that saw the Lutz school win six matches.
“It was the first time we’ve played a tournament in Pasco since the Anclote Tournament our first year,” said Steinbrenner coach Jennifer Graham. “We had a break in our schedule, so we wanted to play in a tournament with good competition and against teams we’re not used to.”
The Warriors, the only Hillsborough County squad in the event, had a height advantage against Nature Coast (16-1) on the front line, especially with 5-foot-11 Miranda Powell and 5-foot-9 Madison Seuzeneau. The two put down 10 kills apiece in the title match.
“Nature Coast was awesome, and we tried to keep the ball away from their big hitters with our serving,” Graham said. “We had some good passing and we were able to run our fast offense.”
Natalia Campos and Powell each had six digs in the finals for Steinbrenner. Powell also added six aces.
The Warriors defeated Lecanto and Wesley Chapel before defeating Mitchell 25-20, 25-22 in the semifinals. Seuzeneau had 10 kills against the Mustangs, while Powell had nine.
All of Graham’s players go playing time at the event.
“That was great because it preps some of the younger girls for next year,” Graham said. “It’s tough to get everybody in when you have a tough schedule, so this was a great opportunity. … Miranda’s sister Madison got in to play some defense and she’s a little fire cracker. She gave us real energy.”
It is the first tournament title for Steinbrenner since winning the Anclote event in 2009.
“I was proud of my girls,” Graham said. “It’s great for them to bring home a trophy.”
