Timpview High School’s volleyball team played a pair of intense matches at Utah Valley University on November 5th. In the first match of the night, the 5A #6-ranked Timpview squad defeated Clearfield High School in four sets, 25-19, 25-22, 23-25, 25-18. The Thunderbirds dominated the first two sets before dropping the third in a tightly contested battle. However, the Thunderbirds quickly regained their composure to close out the match in the fourth set.

Sophomore Mia Sanders (#17) stepped in for senior Janine Allan (#9) after she rolled her ankle and was forced to sit out for the remainder of the match. “She stepped up when we needed her,” coach Briggs Cooper said. Bella Ballin’s (#33) sister, Lina Ballin said, “The team played with so much heart out there.”

In the second match, Timpview faced the 5A #1-ranked Bountiful High School. Bountiful senior Taylor Harvey, a Texas commit, carried the Redhawks’ team as the Thunderbirds fought through three incredibly close sets, but ultimately, Bountiful came out on top, winning 25-22, 26-24, 25-23. Each set was highly competitive, with the T-Birds putting up a strong challenge throughout the night.

Despite the defeat, senior Sadie Sitake expressed pride in the team’s effort. “They gave it their all,” she said. “I could feel the passion from the stands, and I know the team gave everything they had.”

The doubleheader also marked an emotional evening for Timpview’s senior players: Madeline Van Brederode (#5), Shiloah Maunga (#6), Taray Tesla-Spencer (#8), Janine Allan (#9), Shea Wairepo (#13), Samara Hopoate (#15), and Kirsten Hoelzer (#27).

“Thank you to our seniors for an amazing season,” Ballin added. “They’ve led us with heart and determination all year”.