Xavier Prep girls volleyball survives scare, extends league winning streak to 51 matches
PALM DESERT, Calif. (KESQ) -- Xavier Prep's girls volleyball team has been featured frequently on the KESQ News Channel 3.
But for good reason.
The Saints have established one of the most impressive streaks in Coachella Valley high school sports, extending their league winning streak to 51 consecutive matches Tuesday night with a dramatic five-set victory over Indio.
Xavier Prep entered the match having won 50 straight league matches dating back to Oct. 7, 2021. The school honored the accomplishment with a banner ceremony ahead of Tuesday's match against the Rajahs.
Then, the streak was put in serious jeopardy.
Indio pushed Xavier Prep to the brink, taking a 2-1 lead in the match, moving to within one set of ending the Saints' remarkable run.
However, Xavier Prep rallied to win the fourth set before dominating the decisive fifth set to remain unbeaten in league play and keep the streak alive.
Xavier Prep head coach Baylie Dashner credited her team's ability to embrace the challenge and use outside motivation as fuel.
"We've got people that want us to fail, and so I think that is what ignites us," Dashner said. "Remembering that we can prove people wrong, and it feels really good when we do and we continue to."
Saints senior libero Aubree Burrell had 37 digs for the Saints, setting a new single match record for the program.
"All respect to Indio. They're a great team," she said. "At times we just kind of fell off, and we came back and trusted our preparation that we've had."
When asked what makes Xavier Prep so tough to beat, Indio head coach Briana Delval said this:
"They're very disciplined," she said. "They're quick on their feet. They can serve really well. I think they're just really well bonded on the other side. You can see it from the court."
The Saints have now won 51 consecutive league matches dating back to October 2021.
Stay with KESQ News Channel 3 for continuing coverage of local high school sports.
