In a stunning display of talent and determination, the Palos Verdes Girls Volleyball team has secured its third consecutive trip to the CIF State Division I final. This remarkable achievement comes after their dominant three-set victory over Santa Margarita in the regional final on Tuesday. Led by the formidable Kaci Demaria, the Sea Kings delivered a 25-21, 25-18, 25-13 sweep, solidifying their place as one of the state’s elite volleyball programs. Now, they turn their sights to Northern California’s Foothill, the state’s other regional champion, in what promises to be a thrilling showdown for the Division I state championship.
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A Dream Deferred: Kaci Demaria’s Return to the Court
Kaci Demaria, a standout outside hitter, had stepped away from high school volleyball before the 2023 season to focus on her academic commitments after committing to Stanford University. A key player in Palos Verdes’ historic run to its first-ever CIF State Division I championship match the previous year, Demaria had made the difficult decision to prioritize her future academic goals.
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Reflecting on her choice, Demaria explained, “That’s been my dream forever, and I obviously have to get into the school. I’ll do whatever it takes.” Despite her absence, the Palos Verdes program, under head coach Lacey Minzlaff’s expert leadership, made a return to the state final. However, both times, they fell just short of claiming the championship.
Now back in action, Demaria is determined to help her team finish what they started. Her 23-kill performance in the regional final against Santa Margarita was a testament to her prowess and leadership. With Demaria back on the court, the Sea Kings are poised to close the chapter on their unfinished business.
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The Road to the Final: Dominating the Southern California Region
Palos Verdes (26-9) entered the regional final as the fourth seed, facing off against the 10th-seeded Santa Margarita Eagles (24-15-1). Despite the Eagles’ valiant effort, they could not keep up with the relentless energy and precision of the Sea Kings.
In the opening set, Demaria set the tone early, delivering 12 kills to propel Palos Verdes to a 25-21 victory. Santa Margarita made a push in the second set, coming within one point after a kill by sophomore outside hitter Ireland Real. However, Palos Verdes’ defense and overall poise proved too much. The Sea Kings reeled off the final six points of the second set, including two more kills from Demaria, to take a commanding 2-0 lead.
By the third set, Palos Verdes had full control of the match. Santa Margarita could not find its rhythm, and the Sea Kings closed out the set with a 25-13 win to complete the sweep. Demaria’s 23 kills were the highlight of the match, but it was the overall performance of the team, with critical contributions from junior outside hitter Mia Serpa and senior setter Mallory LaBreche, that sealed the victory.
Coach Minzlaff praised her team’s defense and passing as key factors in the win. “I don’t know what else you can say about a kid who does so much for the team,” she said, referring to Demaria’s performance. “She can’t get the ball if we’re not giving [LaBreche] a good pass.” Indeed, it was Palos Verdes’ impeccable passing and defense that allowed Demaria to shine and deliver her standout performance.
A Strong Foundation: The Legacy of Palos Verdes Volleyball
For Palos Verdes, reaching the CIF State Division I final for the third consecutive year is no small feat. It is a testament to the strength and consistency of the program, as well as the commitment of the players and coaching staff. As Demaria noted, “Our program is so strong and amazing. The girls that come in know exactly what to do — work hard, keep up our reputation, and represent PV High strong.”
Demaria’s return to the team has given the Sea Kings a fresh sense of purpose and energy, and with their third straight trip to the state final, the program is cementing its legacy as one of the state’s top volleyball powerhouses.
“We’ve just gotten so lucky with this group of girls,” said Minzlaff, fighting back tears as she reflected on her team’s accomplishments. “It’s definitely not an expectation; we’re lucky every year. I’m so emotional. Just getting the chance to do it again with these girls, with my group of seniors, it would mean the world.”
For Minzlaff, this championship run holds extra significance. “I wear a senior T-shirt every game we play because that’s who this is for. These girls have put everything into this program,” she explained.
Looking Ahead: The State Championship Match
Palos Verdes will face off against Foothill (30-10), the Northern California Regional champion, for the CIF State Division I title on Friday at Santiago Canyon College. First serve is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. Foothill is sure to be a formidable opponent, but with the Sea Kings’ balanced offense, suffocating defense, and leadership from Demaria, Palos Verdes is ready to take on the challenge.
In addition to Demaria’s 23 kills, the Sea Kings’ defensive strength has been key to their success. In the regional final, Palos Verdes registered seven of its eight blocks and six of its seven service aces, putting immense pressure on Santa Margarita. Junior outside hitter Serpa contributed six kills, and LaBreche added three blocks, demonstrating the team’s depth and versatility.
As Palos Verdes prepares for the state final, the focus will remain on finishing what they’ve started. The Sea Kings are determined to claim their first-ever CIF State Division I championship, and they have the talent and experience to do just that.
“We’re lucky every year, but this year feels special,” Minzlaff said. “The energy and the drive from this team is unmatched, and we’re ready to go for it all.”
For the Sea Kings, the journey is far from over. But with the leadership of Demaria and the collective effort of the entire team, the CIF State Division I championship is within reach. It’s a chance to make history, and Palos Verdes is ready to seize it.
The Final Countdown
As the Sea Kings prepare for their state final showdown with Foothill, one thing is clear: Palos Verdes girls volleyball is not only a force to be reckoned with in Southern California but a rising power on the state level. With their eyes set on the championship and their hearts full of determination, the Sea Kings will leave it all on the court on Friday night. Will it be the year Palos Verdes claims its first-ever CIF State Division I title? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: this team is ready to make their mark on history.
