Host Monterey defeats San Benito in three games Thursday 21-25,
18-25, 9-25
Monterey
The regular season for the San Benito boys volleyball team is all but over after the visiting Haybalers lost to Monterey Thursday in three games (21-25, 18-25, 9-25).
The ‘Balers finish the season at 8-6 in the Tri-County Athletic League, 10-19 overall.
San Benito was unable to move up in the TCAL standings, despite winning four their last five matches. Third-place Gilroy managed to stave off any ‘Baler push, as San Benito will finish in fourth place.
“For us, it was about being the spoiler but we couldn’t seal the deal,” Luis Espinoza said. “I have a young team and when you’re playing against an experienced team like Monterey … it’s kind of tough.”
Adrian Rodriguez led San Benito with 23 assists and distributed the ball to Brian Hawks (eight kills) and Roy Powell (four).
Senior David De La Cruz played his last game for San Benito, and delivered 24 digs for the ‘Balers.
“He’s a great kid and one of the best libero’s in the league,” Espinoza said of De La Cruz. “It’ll be tough to fill his shoes.
“I’m gonna miss him. He’s a great captain and a great leader.”
De La Cruz was one of two seniors for San Benito. Elijah Pollard, who had three kills, was a transfer student from Ann Sobrato High School in Morgan Hill and will also graduate this year.
“He’s come pretty far and he was able to contribute a lot to our team and pretty much filled in the outside hitters spot for us and did a great job,” Espinoza said. “He’s gonna be missed also.”
With the bulk of the team returning, though, Espinoza is hoping for a turnaround season next year, and, ideally, would like to get the boys volleyball program to the same level as the girls program at San Benito High School.
“All my boys have experience now,” Espinoza said. “Next year, I know we’re gonna be very competitive.
“Hopefully, with the upcoming group, we can get there.”
