Fullerton started strong during their first set, but regardless couldn’t keep up with the defensive team of Riverside City College on Friday. The Hornets lost their first set at 25-23, their second set at 25-18 and their third set at 25-14.
Although Riverside had a height advantage with their players, Fullerton remained optimistic till the end of the game. Not only was the height difference an obstacle, but the reduced number of players the team has this year.
“Starting with three defensive players that play all around , having 3 liberos makes it difficult with opposing teams that have 6 ‘1” hitters,” stated Coach Kevin Hitt.
According to Hitt, the team relies on players like Emma Orrell who has a strong passing technique, Bri Stotmore that has an aggressive attacking technique and Izzy Hernanadez who is such a great center and keeps the foundation of the team rooted.
Despite some of the players being short, Hitt feels there’s potential in the team. “We talk about amongst ourselves being the best us we can be and not comparing ourselves to others and knowing the truth of who we are and I think tonight we prove that we can play with anybody.”
Fullerton had faced Riverside earlier this season on Sep. 25, 2024, ending with a loss (3-0). Freshman Bri Stotmore, opposite hitter, mentions they did really well on the game against Riverside last night.
“The team has an opportunity to bounce back because we’ve already played all the teams that we’re gonna play soon and I feel like if we fix the mistakes that we’ve already made and use this momentum of like our hard work into our future games, I think that we will win a couple more,” said Stotmore.
The Hornets will have their next match on Oct. 30 in Mission Viejo against Saddleback College at 6:00 p.m.