The Beach conquers the Trojans

By Michelle Fithian, On-Line Forty-Niner

Monday, August 31, 1998

Senior outside hitter Jessica Alvarado racked up 23 kills Saturday night, as she led the No. 2 Long Beach State women's volleyball team in defeating No. 3 USC, 15-7, 10-15, 15-1, 9-15, 15-12 to win the fourth annual NACWAA/State Farm Classic Tournament in New Mexico.

"That was a great match," 49ers head coach Brian Gimmillaro said. "I thought both teams wouldn't give up, and I'm so proud of the courage of our kids."

In a see-saw battle, which lasted two hours and 16 minutes, The Beach jumped out to a quick 5-1 lead in game five. However the Women of Troy came back to pull within 12-11. Senior outside hitter Anja Grabovac scored a kill, while The Trojans countered with a kill by Janae Henry.

Grabovac nailed another kill making the score 14-12. The Beach clinched the victory as USC's Jennifer Kessy hit the ball into the net.

Sophomore defensive specialist Melissa Ohta, led The Beach's defense with a career-high 17 digs.

"Melissa Ohta did a great job, and that's her job." Gimmillaro said. "Nobody works harder or studies the game harder than Melissa."

Senior setter, and tournament MVP, Misty May recorded her 11th career triple-double, tallying 11 kills, 14 digs, and 59 assists.

"In the fifth game I think we picked up our defense a lot," May said. "This is a good win for us, and something we can build on. I felt comfortable out there tonight with Benishe in the middle. She does such a great job of getting open."

Middle blocker Benishe Dillard racked up 14 kills, 14 digs, and six total blocks.

The Beach swept host New Mexico Friday night 15-5, 15-9, 15-4, to advance to meet USC. Redshirt freshman Tayyiba Haneef pounded down 15 kills in her first collegiate start to lead The Beach in Friday's victory.

"I wasn't nervous al all out there," Haneef said.

Gimmillaro had to change the starting line-up, junior outside hitter Veronica Walls and junior middle blocker Brandy Barratt did not start due to injuries.

"Because of our injuries we have to start a new line-up," Gimmillaro said. "It's tough. Tayyiba played great for us. I'm really happy for her."

The team will host the Long Beach State Tournament Friday night. UC Santa Barbara will face Washington at 5 p.m. The Beach will take on Cal at 7:30 p.m.