Old Rochester volleyball hangs on for thrilling victory, improves to 13-2

MATTAPOISETT — The Old Rochester Regional High School volleyball team found themselves hanging on for dear life towards the end of a decisive fifth and final set against Dennis-Yarmouth High School on Wednesday, Oct. 9.

On three separate occasions, Dennis-Yarmouth was just one point away from sealing the victory. All three times, the Bulldogs managed to save the day on their way to a thrilling 3-2 win.

Winning is getting to be a familiar feeling in the Old Rochester gym. The team improved to 13-2 on the season with the win.

The Bulldogs won both of the first two sets before Dennis-Yarmouth marched back to tie the match at two apiece.

“They persevered,” said head coach Jimmy Oliveira of his team. “I’m happy they didn’t give up and kept fighting. It shows a lot of character of the team.”

The Bulldogs were playing for a cause, as this matchup was Old Rochester’s annual Dig Pink game where the program raises money for breast cancer awareness.

Oliveira said the back-and-forth game should help prepare the team for future tense moments.

“If you win every game 3-0, I don’t think it really prepares you,” he said. “I hope this will make them more comfortable in the future in those tight sets.”

Since the onset of the season, Oliveira, who is in his 8th season as the varsity head coach, has thought highly of the team.

“In my opinion they are a top four team in their division,” said Oliveira of the Bulldogs. “They can get it done. When we’re on our A-game I think we are going to be a tough team to stop.”

The strength of the team, according to Oliveira, is experience.

Against Dennis-Yarmouth, Senior Aubrie Letourneau led the way with 43 assists. Senior Caroline Brogioli recorded 17 digs and junior Ava Vander Pol controlled the area around the net. Sophomore Molly Franco did it all, notching 11 kills and 21 digs.

The Bulldogs look to improve on their successful season on Friday, Oct. 11 at Dartmouth High School at 5:15 p.m.