Girls' Volleyball Dominates Norwalk 3-0

After every point, win or lose, the Ridgefield High School girls' volleyball team joined together on their side of the court in a circle. Sometimes it was a single clap, and other times their hands went into the air in celebration.

Most of the time it was a cheer, as Monday night on their home court the Tigers (6-2) beat the Norwalk Bears three sets straight, 25-12, 25-14 and 25-16.

Assistant Coach Vera Gonzalez attributes the win not only to talent, but to the team's camaraderie, as well.

"The seniors have been together all four years now, and they know each other so well," Gonzalez said. "They fight and they do what it takes – you can't coach that."

Especially dangerous offensively at the net was last year's All-F.C.I.A.C. Megan Kirchoff with 11 kills. She also had 11 aces, seven service points and six digs for the night.

"It's the best feeling in the world," Kirchoff said, smiling proudly. "I can have the worst day at school and then come out here, and it's all gone."

With a whopping 25 assists, setter Morgan Hyland also contributed to the win in a big way.

Teresa Giovannoli proved instrumental with two aces, eight service points, nine kills and two blocks.

"Teresa played really well," said coach Lidania Cibere. "She really stepped it up tonight. Our depth this year is great."

In the second set, Giovannoli spiked the ball twice to be dug by one of the Bears both times, and then, on her third time around faked into a simple tap over the net for the point. It was one of the longest volleys of the night.

Other big players were Chelsea Jones, Danielle Mazzilli and Karryn Christiansen. Gonzalez pointed out Christiansen's great defense, despite playing only a part of the game.

A notable factor was the absence of Morgan Hewett, who was out with an ankle injury but could be back by next week, according to Gonzalez.

The Tigers are eager for the post-season now, which starts in the beginning of November.

"We're looking good, really strong," Gonzalez said.

"This was a total team effort – we played all the girls," Cibere said. "It was a sweet, sweet game, and now we're looking at winning the division."

The Tigers are scheduled to play New Canaan on Wednesday.