Hemet volleyball on the hunt for another CIF title

The Hemet Bulldogs volleyball team has one clear goal this season: to three-peat.

For the last two years, Hemet has finished the season as Division 4A CIF champions and gone undefeated in league matches. Head coach Janie Washburn said a repeat is not out of the question.

"I expect this team to go out and perform," Washburn said. "They have the talent. If they play the way they know how, they can win CIF again."

The Bulldogs varsity squad is made up of 16 players, a number roughly four or five higher than most years.

"We have a lot of girls, which means we have a lot of depth," Washburn said. "If somebody isn't ready to play, we have other girls who can fill in."

Washburn said she is excited about the offensive options the Bulldogs possess this season. Last year, Hemet relied heavily on their outside hitters to produce kills. This year, Washburn said they can spread the ball around.

Middle blockers Fia Faaagi, Jessica Brown, and Shelbi Skinner will be looked to as quick offensive weapons while freshman Bailee Huizenga will hit from the right side.

"It's definitely exciting to have a freshman and a sophomore (Faaag), both new to this team, able to come in and hold their own," Washburn said.

While the fresh talent is exciting, Washburn said it is the returners who make up the foundation of the team.

Junior setter Tristan Self, who was named Division 4A Player of the Year last season as well as Mountain Pass League MVP, will be responsible for running the offense this year.

"She is just a stud. She plays like she has played her entire life," Washburn said of her setter. "She is solid and pushes the other girls to work harder."

Self is one of three captains on the team, sharing the duties with seniors Skinner and Kayla Bozer. Bozer will take on the libero responsibilities this year.

"Kayla always knows when to focus and how to get the job done," Washburn said.

First-team all-league outside hitters Savannah Loutzenhiser and Brianna Williams also return to the team this year, as does Baylee Christian. Christian was injured last August and unable to play the entire season, but Washburn said her injury has not stopped her.

"I can only imagine where she would be at if she had been able to play all last year, but she is amazing for coming off an injury. She has stepped up big time," Washburn said. "It is almost like she wasn't hurt at all."

Washburn said as long as the team can pass serve receive well, the rest will fall into place.

"There is no question how much talent we have, it is just a matter of whether or not these girls come out to play and remain focused every game," Washburn said.

The Bulldogs are currently 1-0 on the season, beating Heritage High School in a three game sweep. The team continues its season today, Thursday, at home at 4:30 p.m. against Paloma Valley High School.