The Saugus girls volleyball team has been on a winning spree all season, and Wednesday was no exception as they cruised to a commanding 3-0 victory over Marlborough in the first round of the CIF Division 2 playoffs.

In a match that felt more like a victory parade than a competition, Saugus dominated each set with scores of 25-15, 25-18, and 25-18. Leading the charge was senior powerhouse Leila Ballard, who dazzled the crowd with 19 kills, two aces, and a pair of blocks.

Head Coach Zach Ambrose praised the team’s offensive strategy, which revolves around Ballard’s scoring prowess. 

“It’s all possible thanks to the phenomenal passing from Leila, Gabriella Cascione, and Taylor Stires,” Ambrose explained. “When our passing is on point, it keeps the opposing defense guessing and makes it hard for them to focus solely on Leila’s hits.”

Defensively, Saugus tied their season high with an impressive nine blocks, a testament to their teamwork and strategy. 

The defense works together as a system to slow our opponents attack,” stated Ambrose. “Our serving forces teams into certain sets, the blockers funnel hitters to parts of the courts covered by our defenders. This experienced team does a great job giving narrow windows to attack, helping out our defenders.”

Much of the success that Saugus has had this season plays off of having a team filled with experienced players.

“We have two starters who have played together for four years on varsity. A third starter has been there for three years including a CIF championship run,” said Ambrose. “This team returns six of seven starters from last year. Their talent combined with that experience has created a dominant team on the court.”

Moving forward Ambrose knows there are no weak teams in the playoffs so each game will be a challenge but he is confident in his team’s ability.

“It will come to preparation and execution on the court,” said Ambrose. “If we do both we are confident in our ability to win another match.”

Catch Saugus in action again on Saturday, Oct. 26, at 6 p.m. against Aliso Niguel, where they’ll aim to keep their winning streak alive.

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