- January 9, 2025
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DR. PHILLIPS The Dr. Phillips girls volleyball team advanced in the FHSAA Class 9A State Playoffs Tuesday night, sweeping visiting Newsome (Lithia) in the regional quarterfinals: 25-14, 25-18, 25-20.
Against an opponent the Panthers (19-7) knew little about, coach Danny Eleutiza said his team's ability to come out strong in the first set was pivotal.
"It was very important because we didn't know the other team — we'd never seen them," Eleutiza explained. "So, just establishing ourselves to them and showing them what we have, it was very important coming in."
Mallory Porcher and Maredis Colon each had 11 kills for Dr. Phillips, along with nine kills from Emily Davis. Gregna Fuentes facilitated kills throughout the game, compiling 34 assists on the night.
The Panthers will now take to the road to face Sarasota's Riverview, which swept Olympia in its respective regional quarterfinal match: 25-20, 25-20, 25-23. Readying to face another opponent the team is unfamiliar with, Eleutiza said it is important for his team to focus within.
"Just play our game," Eleutiza said.
Contact Steven Ryzewski at [email protected].