WHITE SALMON — The Columbia High School volleyball program is hoping to build on its eighth-place finish in the WIAA Class 1A state tournament in 2025.
The Bruins, led by first-year head Coach Naomi Posini and assistant Coach Fernanda Cosio, return five varsity players, and three starters from last season.
“Last year’s post-season success was an amazing accomplishment; I’m still so proud of that team,” said Posini. “We lost some amazing seniors, but we’ve still got some great talent, and I’m hoping to build on that and make it back to the state tournament this year.”
The Bruins return seniors Joella Posini, Fiona Grabb, Lola Marti and Julia Mullinix, and junior McKena Carlock. Joella Posini and Grabb both earned all-league honorable mention selections last season.
“McKena Carlock was our libero and will continue to be a defensive leader for us,” said Posini. “Lola and Julia have played different positions for us over the years, but I expect them both to be strong contributors to our team defensively and offensively.”
Posini said the team got some experience at the PNW Summer Volleyball Classic (SVC) in Centralia in July, where the Bruins finished in 12th place.
Posini added that Joella Posini, Grabb, Marti and Carlock also played some great volleyball that weekend. Joella Posini was selected as an All-SVC Tournament Player. Junior varsity players from last season like Liz Salguero, Taryn Wallace, and Genesis Orozco had a chance to get some varsity court time, the coach added.
The Bruins first game is on the road, just across the bridge at Hood River Valley High School at 6:45 p.m. on Sept. 1, before starting WIAA 1A Trico League play against La Center High School at 7 p.m. on Sept. 15 at home.
“I’ve coached these seniors since fifth grade in club volleyball and have watched them develop their talent and their character,” said Posini. “It’s a really special group, and I’m hoping to give them a great last season of volleyball.”
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