Tustin girls volleyball team captures key Empire League win

Tustin’s volleyball team meets during a break in Thursday’s match. (Photo courtesy Brianna Gonzalez)

Tustin High’s girls volleyball team captured a three set Empire League victory over Valencia Thursday night in front of a big and enthusiastic home crowd that included the Tillers’ cheerleaders and baseball and football players.

The scores were 25-13; 25-21; 25-14. 

“The Empire League is a really evenly matched league this year,” said Tustin Coach Joanna Lane. “Everyone is strong and on any given day anyone could walk away with the win. The Tillers are off to a slow start in league but with a big win vs. Kennedy on Tuesday and a big win against Valenica last night the effort, good vibes and hard work is paying off.”

Lane described Thursday’s match as “amazing” and said “the girls really showed up and their effort is the reason why we beat Valencia.”

Junior setter Rebekah Ma had 32 assists and senior outside hitter Erin McInnes had 12 kills, 12 digs and two aces.

Senior middle blocker Tamiyah Boykin had four kills, four aces, and five blocks, a career high.

Freshman Kate McInnes had seven kills with zero errors, one ace and five digs and junior libero Caroline Vasquez contributed 14 digs. 

Lane added that 14 Tustin High teachers were also recognized “for their dedication and hard work.”