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The Avonworth Volleyball team went on to compete in the first round of the state playoffs. After winning 3 straight sets, the team was declared victorious against Erie Cathedral Prep.
They then entered the quarterfinal on Saturday, November 8th, facing Everett at Hempfield High School. The team had yet another sweep, defeating their competition in 3 straight sets. When asked about the game, co-captain Jada Taylor said that “it wasn’t our best game, yet we beat them by so much.” She also mentioned how Avonworth’s close relationship with 1A school Eden Christian Academy has given them an extra boost of support throughout the bracket.
At this point, the team was in the state semi-final game playing against Corry High School. The game was played on November 11th at Grove City High School and started with a first-set win by Corry.
Early in the game, star setter Ali Colasante went out with a hand injury. Senior Jada Taylor, a previous setter for the team, was able to step up and lead the team to three straight set victories.
Outside hitter Julia Cernich also had a notable performance, with 26 kills throughout the 4 sets. Avonworth walked away with a 3-1 victory.
Again defying all odds, the Avonworth volleyball team earned a spot in the PIAA championship game, setting yet another school record. Their final game took place on Saturday, November 15th, at Cumberland Valley High School against Lansdale Catholic.
The team played a very close first set that ended with Avonworth pulling out a win. The second set was a struggle, and the offense had trouble finding opportunities. However, Avonworth did not let the low morale of the second set continue. They dominated the third set and then went on to win a close fourth set, bringing home the state title.
Co-captain Julia Cernich said that winning felt “surreal” and that it was incredibly special to keep making school history. The other captain, Jada Taylor, agreed and stated that this was a “perfect way for me to end off my senior season.”
The team finished out this fantastic weekend with their banquet the following day. This was quite unusual for sports teams, which usually have their banquets several weeks after the conclusion of the season. However, because of their unexpected run to the state championship, the season went much longer than anyone had anticipated and the banquet had already been planned. The overall reaction to the banquet was positive. However, after such a long and exciting weekend, many were understandably tired.
The team hopes that this momentum will carry them through next season as well. They expect an increased fanbase and more interest in playing from younger students. In the 2026 season, the PIAA volleyball will be expanded to a 5A sport; Avonworth will move from 2A to 3A. Despite this change, the team has high expectations and hopes for next year.
