Earl Marriott’s senior girls volleyball team fights hard and claims silver at BC provincials, showcasing skill, teamwork, and future promise.
EMS Mariners Shine at Provincial Championships
The Earl Marriott Senior Girls AAAA volleyball team returned from Kelowna with silver medals after an intense provincial showdown from November 27–29. Competing against 16 top teams from across British Columbia, the Mariners showcased exceptional skill and teamwork throughout the tournament.
Dominating the South Fraser Zone
Before provincials, EMS proved their strength locally, sweeping the South Fraser Championship for the second consecutive year. Their decisive 3-1 win over Lord Tweedsmuir confirmed they were a force to be reckoned with, earning them a top seed heading into the provincial competition.
A Strong Start at Provincials
Ranked No. 2, the Mariners kicked off the tournament in the top power pool, facing BC’s elite teams. Day one was electric: EMS defeated No. 1 Claremont 2-0, No. 3 Walnut Grove 2-0, and edged out Okanagan Mission 2-1. The momentum continued on Day 2 with straight-set wins over R.E. Mountain (3-0) and Handsworth (3-0) in the quarterfinals.
Nail-Biting Semifinal Victory
On the third day, EMS faced the Kelowna Owls in a grueling semifinal. After a tense five-set match, the Mariners triumphed 3-2, securing a spot in the championship final against the South Delta Sun Devils.
Championship Clash: Heart-Pounding Finish
In front of a roaring crowd at Okanagan Mission’s main gym, the final delivered edge-of-your-seat excitement. EMS and South Delta traded victories in the first four matches, forcing a decisive fifth set to 15 points. Every serve and dig had fans holding their breath, but the Sun Devils ultimately pulled ahead, winning 15-11. Despite falling short, the Mariners’ effort earned them provincial silver a remarkable achievement.
Growth, Perseverance, and Pride
Coach Rob Stevens praised the team for their growth, unity, and resilience. “I couldn’t be prouder of this exceptional group of young ladies. They grew not only in skill but also in confidence and heart,” he said.
The team’s youth is promising: with a lineup featuring a Grade 9, two Grade 10s, and five Grade 11s, the Mariners are expected to return even stronger next year.
Individual Honors Shine
Two Mariners, Faith Burden and Isla Stock—who will continue her volleyball career at UBC Okanagan earned First Team All-Star recognition. Tournament MVP honors went to South Delta’s Ryan Assay, who will also play for UBCO Heat next year.
Support from School and Community
EMS staff, parents, and principal Graham Magnusson made the trip to cheer on the team. Athletic director Russ Heggie emphasized the dedication and teamwork the Mariners displayed: “We are so proud of their accomplishments in this journey, representing Earl Marriott on the highest stage of their sport.”
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