The Francis Parker Lancers (26-7) will host the Saugus Centurions (40-2) in a home playoff match today at 5 p.m. This game is part of the 2024 CIF State Girls Volleyball Championships – Division I tournament.

Here’s what you need to know:

What: California High School Volleyball
Who: Francis Parker vs Saugus
When: Tuesday, November 12, 2024
Time: 5 PM
Bracket: 2024 CIF State Girls Volleyball Championships – Division I
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Game preview: Francis Parker vs Saugus

As the 2024-2025 high school volleyball season unfolds, the Saugus and Francis Parker teams have emerged as two of the most dominant squads, each showcasing impressive records and standout performances. Both teams have demonstrated remarkable consistency and skill, with Saugus posting an outstanding 40-2 record and Francis Parker following closely with a 26-7 mark. Here’s a deeper dive into their seasons and what sets them apart.

Saugus’ Dominant Season

With a near-perfect record of 40-2 overall, Saugus has been a powerhouse this season. Their league play has been flawless, boasting a perfect 12-0 record, while their home and away performances have also been stellar, with 12-0 at home and 12-1 on the road. Their exceptional record is a testament to the team’s depth and talent, with impressive team averages in key areas like kills, digs, and assists.

Leila Ballard has been the standout player for Saugus, leading the team in kills with 615, a remarkable achievement. Other key contributors include Katelyn Nelson, who leads in total blocks (106), and Gabriella Cascione, who has been a force in serving aces (97) and digs (490). Morgan Guardado has also played a critical role, leading the team with 719 assists. As a team, Saugus has posted 1375 kills, 212 total blocks, 440 serving aces, and 1884 digs, showcasing their all-around strength.

Francis Parker’s Strong Campaign

While not as dominant as Saugus in terms of overall wins, Francis Parker has still had an impressive season with a 26-7 record. Their league performance has been strong, finishing with a 9-1 record. They have excelled in both home and away games, with a 8-2 record at home and 6-2 on the road. Their overall record includes notable wins and solid performances, particularly in key matchups against common opponents.

Francis Parker’s key player, though not listed in the provided stats, has made significant contributions across the board, helping the team to a successful season. They have a solid average of 22.0 kills per match, 21.7 serving aces, and 26.3 digs per match, all pointing to their consistency in key areas. Despite a tougher non-league slate, Francis Parker’s resilience is reflected in their 12-3 neutral-site record.

Head-to-Head Comparison

When looking at common opponents, the contrast between Saugus and Francis Parker’s performances is evident. In a matchup with Village Christian, Saugus faced a loss (3-1) on August 27, 2024, whereas Francis Parker claimed victories, both at home (2-0) and away (2-0). This underlines the differences in how each team matches up with top-tier competition. Nonetheless, both teams have shown they can thrive in tough conditions, with Saugus losing only once in league play and Francis Parker keeping close with a strong 9-1 league mark.

Playoff Outlook

Both teams have shown themselves to be playoff contenders. Saugus has a record of 2-1 in playoff matches, indicating their ability to handle high-pressure situations. Francis Parker, on the other hand, has a 1-1 playoff record, and their performance in the postseason will likely depend on key players stepping up, particularly in matches against strong opposition.

The Future of Saugus and Francis Parker

Looking forward, both teams appear to be set for continued success. With a focus on their key players and a solid overall team performance, both Saugus and Francis Parker are in strong positions for further playoff runs and competitive finishes. Saugus’ dominance in league play, combined with individual brilliance from players like Ballard and Cascione, makes them a formidable contender. Meanwhile, Francis Parker’s strong matchups and ability to rise to the occasion against top teams will ensure they remain a force in the postseason.

Conclusion

In a season filled with fierce competition, Saugus and Francis Parker have proven themselves to be among the best in high school volleyball. Both teams have displayed extraordinary levels of play, with Saugus leading the way in both overall record and team statistics. However, Francis Parker’s strong league record and notable wins against common opponents show they too are more than capable of making an impact in the postseason. Volleyball fans can expect exciting matchups ahead as these two talented teams continue their push for glory.