College Heights claims historic title

“This feels great. Wonderful. This is a first for College Heights for senior boys volleyball,” said Guillet.

The championship did not come easy. Duchess Park pushed the Cougars throughout the match, particularly in a tightly contested opening set that set the tone for the rest of the evening.

“We had a great opponent in Duchess Park. They have a great program, great history. And that first set was a nail biter,” said Guillet. “It was awesome to see the guys come out on top.”

For the players, the title was the reward for months of work and commitment on and off the court. Senior Darrien Padilla said the team had its sights set on this goal from the beginning of the season.

“From a player’s perspective, it feels really nice. We’ve worked hard for this moment all season long, and we delivered,” said Padilla.

Despite winning the city championship, the Cougars know their season is far from finished. The team now turns its attention toward the upcoming zone championships, where qualification for the provincial tournament will be at stake.

“We still got a few more weeks to go. We still have to qualify for provincials,” said Padilla.

Guillet expects the competition at zones to be just as intense as the city championship. With Cedars Christian hosting provincials, several strong northern B.C. programs will be battling for the remaining spots.

“We’re going to have to battle Duchess Park again, battle DP Todd and Cedars and Shas Ti Kelly Road and PG,” said Guillet. “We’re going to enjoy this right now, but tomorrow we get back to work.”

Padilla credited Guillet for helping keep the team focused throughout the season and during the pressure of championship play.

“He keeps us together and he gives us a direction, and then we just follow it,” said Padilla.

The Cougars may finally have their city championship banner, but with provincials still on the horizon, their next challenge is already waiting.

by Stephen Lewyta

College Heights claims historic title

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