By Carlena Knight
The celebrations were in full swing for Island Academy on Monday afternoon as they claimed double championships in both the male and female divisions of this year’s Interschool Volleyball League.
Island Academy’s female team started the celebrations first, defeating Antigua Girls’ High School (AGHS) 2-1 in sets at the YMCA Sports Complex.
The former champions AGHS drew first blood taking the first set 15-13, but with a plethora of unforced turnovers, the all-girls school quickly found themselves in deep water as they lost the second set, 11-15.
It was a seesaw battle in the third and deciding set but once again turnovers would plague AGHS, giving Island Academy the momentum to steal the set and virtually the championship trophy.
Captain of the winning team Jahzara Donovan expressed her excitement over their win.
“It’s my first year playing volleyball and I am very proud of my team. We did our best and went undefeated and I am just so proud of them. My heart is beating so fast. I am so happy for them. We are winning next year too; Undefeated,” Donovan proclaimed.
It was a true Cinderella story for the boys’ team as well who, last season, only managed to win two games.
Going into the finals against favourites Ottos Comprehensive School, many did not believe that the private school would be able to withstand the power of OCS, but like true champions, they rose to the occasion stunning the public school and their supporters 2-1 in sets.
OCS claimed the first set 25-17 and quite seemingly looked like they were going to take the second.
But Island Academy would not be outdone and rallied to win the second, 25-15.
Both teams brought their A-game in the third and final set exchanging points throughout, but Island Academy would surge ahead and never looked back — scoring three consecutive points to win the title.
“I think we did really well going into the second and third sets. Our mentality definitely changed and our goal was to win the championship and here we are now,” co-captain Noah Perry said.
“Last year, we only won two games and that’s why it’s a big deal; it’s a big improvement so we are just happy to win. You can expect more wins from us next year,” Jaden Challenger, the other captain added.