By Karen Cirino-Barone and Brian Dessart
Although Stony Brook was a worthy opponent, the Lady Rocks proved unstoppable, recording impressive straight wins, 25-15, 25-15 and 25-14. Ksenia Ferrand led the team with six kills while Maura Feil totaled five, and Megan Godio was credited with 13 assists in what can only be described as consummate team play.
"This is not about one player, it's about teamwork," said Ferrand.
The Rocks team is a showcase of strength and skill, with a game that's a mix of power and poise, highlighted by senior Heather Petry's killer shots, Ferrand's perfectly executed spikes, Feil's driving serves, Sana Shah's all-court skill, Shannon Barton's front-line work and the endless energy of Godio and Meneses. Their tenacious teamwork, backed by superior coaching and sparked by the team's sheer determination to win, proved to be an unbeatable combination.
"It's 90 percent a mental game," said junior Emily Alspector, "and we were all there."
Coached by 10-year veteran Christine Nelson, who was assisted by Karin Leary, Don Poland and manager Caitlin Klingbeil, the Lady Rocks are a force to be reckoned with. Their game is intense and their power is often intimidating.
"This team works so well together," beamed coach Nelson. "They have attended camps and clinics together and are just amazing."
The Lady Rocks entered the Long Island competition just days after a sweet 3-1 victory over North Shore that gave them the county championship.
Captains Feil, Ferrand and Megan Meneses credit their hard work and supportive coaching staff for their success.
"We start practicing in August," said Meneses. "And we practiced hard for a few hours each day."
The Lady Rocks knew they had a clear shot at the Long Island title when they beat Carle Place, a team East Rockaway hadn't defeated in 10 years.
"It was a pivotal moment," said senior Kristen Bruno.
The Rocks' chances improved dramatically when they beat North Shore Nov. 6, at SUNY Old Westbury, for the county championship.
After taking control of the match with wins in the first two games, 25-20 and 25-19, the Lady Rocks were handed a defeat in the third game, 28-26. But they rebounded to win the fourth game 25-18, and with it the county title.
The combination of Feil and Godio proved to be too much for North Shore. Feil had 10 kills, five blocks and three aces, and Godio recorded 29 assists.
"After that match we knew nothing could stop us," said sophomore Addie Cappello.
The state playoffs kick off Friday at 1 p.m. at SUNY Cortland.
