The First Colonial Patriots (19-6) varsity volleyball team from Virginia Beach, VA, will face off against the Kellam Knights (16-9) in a neutral playoff match today at 6 p.m. This game is part of the “2024 VHSL Girls Volleyball Region Brackets (Virginia) – Class 5 Region A” tournament.

Here’s what you need to know:

What: Virginia High School Volleyball
Who: First Colonial vs Kellam
When: Tuesday, November 12, 2024
Time: 6:00 PM
Bracket: 2024 VHSL Girls Volleyball Region Brackets (Virginia) – Class 5 Region A
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Game preview: First Colonial vs Kellam

The Kellam and First Colonial high school volleyball teams, both hailing from Virginia Beach, VA, are gearing up for a highly anticipated playoff match tonight. This clash between two top-tier programs promises high stakes and intense competition. With strong records, these teams have been powerhouses in the region, each vying for victory in a game that could determine their postseason fate.

Season Performance and Standings

Kellam enters this match with an overall record of 16-9 and an impressive 12-4 record in the region, placing them at 25th in Division 5. Their winning percentage stands at .640, with a regional win rate of .750, showing their ability to dominate local opponents. At home, Kellam holds an 8-3 record, showing resilience on their own turf. In comparison, First Colonial boasts a stronger overall record of 19-6 and holds 13th place in Division 4, with a .760 win rate. Their 11-5 record within the region and stellar 10-2 away record reveal their ability to perform under pressure outside their home environment.

Head-to-Head Showdowns

In their two previous matches this season, Kellam has emerged victorious. The first encounter on August 27th was a tight, five-set battle that saw Kellam narrowly edging First Colonial 3-2. Later, on October 10th, Kellam swept First Colonial in three straight sets, 25-19, 25-15, and 25-18. These victories give Kellam confidence heading into tonight’s playoff, though First Colonial is undoubtedly looking to turn the tables.

Team Comparisons and Key Players

Kellam’s success has been powered by their standout players, particularly #22 Audriana Neil, who leads the team with 226 kills, far surpassing the national average. #11 Vanessa Jarvis leads with 54 total blocks, showcasing Kellam’s defensive capabilities at the net. Other key players include #6 Riley Erwin, with an impressive 52 serving aces and 415 assists, and #10 Sydney Stone, who leads with 343 digs and 415 receptions.

In contrast, while First Colonial’s team stats remain unlisted, their impressive regional record speaks volumes about their teamwork, adaptability, and depth. Their recent 3-1 victory over a common opponent, Cox, shows that they can rally when it matters.

Scoring Averages and Common Opponents

Scoring averages reflect both teams’ strengths in each set. Kellam scores around 23 points per set and averages 14.3 points in the fifth, where matches tend to be decided, while First Colonial has a slightly higher overall set average, with 23.8 points and 14.5 in the fifth.

Against common opponents, both teams boast winning records, with Kellam achieving a 12-5 record and First Colonial topping that with a 13-3 record. Notable victories for Kellam include sweeps over Green Run, Tallwood, and Princess Anne, while First Colonial has also excelled against these teams. Each team has had mixed success against Ocean Lakes, showing that while the teams are evenly matched, their strategies may differ against specific competitors.

What to Expect

Both teams are set for an intense rematch with familiar adversaries across the net. Kellam’s previous wins over First Colonial could give them a psychological edge, but First Colonial’s strong season record and proven performance under pressure make them formidable contenders.

This high-stakes playoff match promises to be a thrilling contest of skill, strategy, and determination as each team seeks a path to the next round. For fans of Virginia Beach volleyball, this showdown is one not to miss. The match will take place tonight at 6 p.m., and volleyball enthusiasts can expect a fierce battle with every point counting toward these teams’ playoff ambitions.