TAFT, CA – (Story by Kailee Wakatake)

On Wednesday, November 1, Taft College Women's Volleyball challenged West Hills College Coalinga. In the first round of conference play, Taft fell short to the Falcons, losing in three sets. This time around, the Lady Cougars were looking to split with the Falcons and take the win.

Although they were both very close, WHCC won both the first and second sets 24-26 and 23-25. However, the Cougars were determined as they fought back to take the third and fourth sets 25-19 and 25-21. It all came down to the fifth and final set. The Falcons started strong with a 5-1 lead, but it would be the Cougars to be first to 8 points. The teams switched sides and continued the match. The Falcons gained the lead, but the Cougars came back. The score was now tied at 15-15, the Cougars fought their hardest but came up short, losing the fifth set 15-17.

"Tonight was a very fun and competitive match. I am very proud of how we responded as a team in the third set. We could've very easily given up, but the team rallied together and showed more resiliency and determination than I've seen all year. We are on the right track physically and mentally to finish our conference playing at an elite level," said TC Head Coach Mallori Rossi.

Taft will be away this Friday to challenge Fresno City College in their last match on the road. The Cougars host West Hills College Lemoore on November 8 and Reedley College on November 10 next week for their last two conference matches of the 2023-2024 season.