Del Oro sweeps Placer in Foundation Game

The Del Oro and Placer girls volleyball teams unofficially opened their seasons Wednesday night in Auburn, squaring off in a Peter J. Saco Foundation Game that carried more than just early bragging rights. While the result won't count toward the official records, both teams treated the rivalry showdown as an important match to set the tone for the season. Del Oro defeated Placer 3-0 (25-9, 25-17, 25-15) behind strong performances from Gia Hoffman, Sophia Sampson and Sydney Weber. The Golden Eagles pulled ahead quickly in each set to control the match. "I thought we played really well together and had lots of energy and communication," said Hoffman, Del Oro's libero and one of its senior captains. "I think we just came out and played the best we could and it was just super fun to see that chemistry at the start of the season." Sampson said the win sets the tone for the season as the Golden Eagles have high hopes. "I think that we definitely have a chance to take the SFL," said Sampson. "I'm really excited to see where this team can go and what they can do." "We have high goals this season and I'm excited to obtain them," said Hoffman. "Everybody has so much love for each other and for the game and I think it's evident on the court. I just think that we're going to do great things this season." Placer coach Karly Sipherd-Smith was pleased with her young squad. She noted Del Oro is one of the stronger teams the Hillgals will see this season and Wednesday night was an important test. "I love the matchup. It was fun to see our girls and to see what they could do at game speed," said Sipherd-Smith. "Obviously, we have things to work on and we're not happy with the end result, but I saw a lot of good things from them tonight." Sipherd-Smith said it was nice to see a strong crowd out to support both teams, stressing the importance for the players to get a true game-day experience before the season officially begins. She added there was room for improvement, noting she wants to see Placer be more aggressive at the net and attack more. "Going forward, I want to see us have important games where we're still taking swings and being aggressive and not afraid of the moment," said Sipherd-Smith. "That's what shows me that we're in good shape." Placer officially begins its season Aug. 26 against Colfax while Del Oro begins Aug. 25 against Christian Brothers.