Falcons Volleyball Battles Hard in Back-to-Back Matches

The Folsom Lake College women's volleyball team faced two tough opponents last week, falling to Modesto on the road (3–0) and to San Joaquin Delta at home (3–0). While the results didn't go their way, the Falcons showed fight, improvement, and flashes of high-level play that point to a promising stretch ahead.

September 17 – Modesto 3, Folsom Lake 0

The Falcons opened the week against a strong Modesto squad. After dropping the first set 25–13, Folsom Lake found its rhythm and nearly stole the second set, pushing the Pirates before falling 25–23. The Falcons continued to battle in the third, keeping the score tight before Modesto closed it out 25–20.

While the box score shows a sweep, the Falcons demonstrated resilience. Their third-set hitting percentage jumped to .250, highlighted by cleaner execution and stronger swings at the net.

September 19 – San Joaquin Delta 3, Folsom Lake 0

Two nights later, the Falcons hosted powerhouse San Joaquin Delta in a thriller that came down to the wire. After dropping the first two sets (25–11, 25–20), Folsom Lake put together their best volleyball of the week in an electrifying third set.

Led by Erin Ayers with 10 kills and Laela Christy swinging an impressive .625, the Falcons pushed Delta deep into extra points before narrowly falling 28–26. Lola Quintanar added steady setting with 19 assists, while Ava Pham and Olivia Kay provided energy in the back row and serving line.

Falcons' Bright Spots

Despite the losses, the Falcons' improvement from set to set was clear. Against Delta, the team posted 22 total kills, their highest output of the week, with multiple players stepping up offensively. Defensively, 33 total digs kept long rallies alive and showed the team's grit.

Head Coach Molly Hanrahan emphasized the growth on display:

"We're competing harder every match, and that third set against Delta showed what we're capable of when we trust our system," she said. "If we keep building on that energy, wins will come."

Looking Ahead

With back-to-back battles against top programs behind them, the Falcons are gaining valuable experience. Their ability to raise their level late in matches is a promising sign as conference play looms.

For now, Folsom Lake will continue to lean on its developing core of Ayers, Christy, Quintanar, and Pham while looking for more breakout moments across the roster.

The scoreboard didn't tilt their way this week, but the Falcons' progress shows they're taking the right steps forward — with plenty of fight left in the season.