The Pahrump Valley High School girls’ junior varsity volleyball team took to their home court on Monday, September 29, for an exciting match against the visiting Virgin Valley Bulldogs. The Trojans played with heart and determination, keeping both sets competitive from start to finish.
The first set opened with strong play from new addition Kaitlyn Brown, wearing number 9, who quickly proved her presence at the net. Ava Bowers started things off with a spike to give Pahrump the early lead, followed by a serving run that included a Virgin Valley hit off the net antenna to make it 3-1. The Trojans continued their momentum as Brown and Bowers combined for a block that put them up 6-3. Olivia Veloz added solid serves, while Emily Zaragoza showcased her hustle with a diving save during a long rally, later earning a well-deserved point with a spike to extend the lead to 8-5.
As the set progressed, the Bulldogs began to chip away at the Trojan advantage. Despite some errors at the net and trouble returning a few serves, Pahrump kept battling, with Brown tipping a ball over to score at 16-11. The Trojans stayed aggressive as Zaragoza and McKinsey Nottingham made key plays at the net, but a few rotation and serving errors late in the set gave Virgin Valley the opening they needed. Even as Pahrump fought off set point with spikes from Veloz and a block from Nottingham, the Bulldogs narrowly took the first set 25-22.
The Trojans regrouped for the second set with renewed energy. Olivia Veloz opened with a kill to tie it early, and Autumn Colon followed with a serving ace to build momentum. Brown continued to impress with an ace of her own to bring the Trojans within 7-9, while Sarah Penner contributed with sharp defense, keeping rallies alive and helping Pahrump stay in the game. Midway through the set, Nottingham and Veloz worked together at the net—McKinsey blocking a crucial shot and Olivia firing a spike from the 10-foot line to close the gap to 13-14.
The match remained tight as both teams exchanged long volleys and strong serves. Veloz’s energy and consistency on both offense and defense helped the Trojans keep pace late into the set. After a run of points from Virgin Valley, Pahrump made a late push with blocks from Nottingham and solid returns from Brown and Penner. However, despite their spirited comeback, the Bulldogs managed to edge out the Trojans once again, 25-19.
Though the final score went to Virgin Valley, the Trojans displayed teamwork, resilience, and growth on the court. With standout performances from newcomers and returning players alike, the PVHS JV squad continues to build chemistry and confidence as they move through the season.
