The goal was simple for the Whitney High boys volleyball team – get back to the NorCal Regional Championship game after losing to Campolindo last year.

The Wildcats accomplished step one of their plan by outdueling Leigh High School of San Jose three sets to none Tuesday night. Whitney will host game two against Drake of San Anselmo, 3-1 winners over Northgate.

“Our performance was OK,” said Whitney head coach Kirsten Gideon-Parker. “We had players who made mistakes early and we were over-thinking it.  We’re making sure we are focusing on the here and now and not worrying who we are playing Thursday or Saturday.”

The ‘Cats were leading 16-11 halfway through the third set when the Longhorns used a 7-2 run to tie the game up at 18.  Whitney responded when David Parker led a Wildcats’ 7-2 rally to seal the victory 25-20.

In game two, Whitney jumped out to a 23-12 advantage behind the play of Cavan Steward. The Longhorns battled back to close the gap, but still fell 25-18.

The Wildcats took the first set 25-22.

Parker had 17 kills on 26 attempts, three blocks and two aces. Stewart had eight kills on 13 attempts, three blocks and three aces.

Middle Zach Proven added five blocks and steady serving.

Leigh’s senior outside hitter Aaron Dierkes was the outstanding payer for the Longhorns.

WHITNEY 3, LEIGH 0

Longhorns           22  18  20 – 0

Wildcats              25  25  25 – 3

Source: http://www.placerherald.com/article/wildcats-advance-nor-cal-regionals-win-over-leigh