In a thrilling and intense sectional championship rematch, the Rome Free Academy (RFA) girls volleyball team showed their resilience and skill as they emerged victorious over New Hartford. The two powerhouse programs, who have established themselves as titans of New York’s high school volleyball scene, delivered a breathtaking five-set match that had fans on the edge of their seats. This victory was more than just a win—it was a statement to the entire state that RFA is ready to take on all comers in the hunt for a state championship.
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A Battle of the Titans
The match, held on a chilly Thursday night, pitted two of the region’s most successful volleyball teams against each other. New Hartford, the defending Class A sectional champions, were aiming to defend their title, while RFA was on a mission to dethrone them. The stakes couldn’t have been higher. Both teams had dominated their respective leagues, with RFA coming into the match with a perfect record and New Hartford looking to extend their reign as the Section III champions.
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The contest was nothing short of spectacular, and the atmosphere in the gym was electric. Both teams showcased their incredible depth, talent, and coaching throughout the match, making it clear that this was more than just a game—it was a rivalry for the ages.
The Setting of the Stage: A Strong Start for RFA
Right from the opening serve, it was clear that RFA was determined to make a statement. The Black Knights stormed through the first set with a confidence and poise that immediately put New Hartford on their heels. Senior setter Thylia Keoviengsamay, a pivotal force for RFA, orchestrated the offense flawlessly, guiding her teammates with precision and providing the perfect opportunities for outside hitter Kali Fountain and middle blocker Jenna Preski to showcase their power.
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Keoviengsamay’s leadership on the court was evident as she was not only the setter but also a vocal leader, keeping her teammates focused and motivated. She played with an energy that lifted the entire team, and it didn’t take long for fans to see why she is one of the top setters in the region. With a strong attack and solid defense, RFA dominated the first set 25-19.
New Hartford, however, was not going to go down without a fight. In the second set, they came out with renewed intensity. Led by their veteran players, including their star outside hitter, they began to find their rhythm. Despite some impressive plays from RFA’s back row defense and the hard-hitting attacks from Preski, New Hartford’s blockers adjusted to the pace of the game. Their defense started to take control, and they capitalized on a few key mistakes made by RFA. New Hartford eked out a narrow 25-22 win to even the match at 1-1.
The Tightening of the Battle
As the match continued, the tension only escalated. Set three was a back-and-forth battle with neither team willing to give an inch. The fans were treated to a chess match of volleyball strategy, with both teams adjusting their tactics after every point. Keoviengsamay continued to distribute the ball well, keeping New Hartford’s defense guessing. Fountain’s attacks were strong, and Preski’s presence at the net was intimidating, but New Hartford’s resilience showed through. Their setter, who is known for her consistency, placed precise balls that enabled their hitters to find gaps in the Black Knights’ defense.
The third set had fans holding their breath as RFA had a slim lead, only to see New Hartford claw back into the match. Ultimately, it was RFA that would emerge on top, winning the third set 26-24 in a thrilling, nail-biting finish that saw both teams exchange point for point until RFA finally capitalized on a New Hartford error to take the set.
The fourth set, however, saw New Hartford prove why they were the defending champions. With a sense of urgency, they capitalized on RFA’s errors and picked up their defense, especially at the net. Their blockers were able to shut down RFA’s outside attacks, and their hitters found their rhythm once again. Despite a valiant effort from the Black Knights, New Hartford took the fourth set 25-20, tying the match at 2-2.
The Decisive Fifth Set: RFA’s Moment of Glory
With the match on the line, it all came down to a fifth set—a set where both teams knew that every point would be crucial. The energy in the gym was palpable, and the tension could be felt from the bleachers to the court. RFA came out strong, determined to finish what they had started. Keoviengsamay continued to set the tone with a perfect mix of fast and slow sets, confusing New Hartford’s defense and setting up her teammates for easy kills. Fountain, who had been consistent all night, stepped up in the fifth set, delivering some critical kills that kept RFA ahead. Preski’s block at the net became an impenetrable wall, stifling New Hartford’s offensive attacks.
New Hartford pushed back, as expected, with their own set of powerful attacks and relentless defense. But in the end, it was RFA who had the final say. With a thrilling 15-12 victory in the fifth set, RFA secured the win, defeating New Hartford 3-2 in a match that will be remembered for years to come.
Key Performances: Keoviengsamay Leads the Charge
While every player contributed to the victory, it was Thylia Keoviengsamay who emerged as the standout performer. As the setter, she dictated the flow of the game, making crucial decisions and setting her teammates up for success. Her leadership and court awareness were unmatched, and she played a key role in both RFA’s offense and defense. Keoviengsamay’s ability to read the game and make quick adjustments was critical in the Black Knights’ win.
Another player who stood out was Kali Fountain, who was a constant offensive threat for RFA. Her powerful and accurate attacks were a key factor in the team’s ability to stay in front. Whether hitting from the back row or attacking from the outside, Fountain showed why she is one of the premier outside hitters in the region.
Preski’s presence at the net was another major factor in RFA’s success. Her blocking abilities were exceptional, and her attacking presence made her a tough matchup for New Hartford. Every time RFA needed a critical play, Preski was there, either with a kill or a timely block to keep the momentum on their side.
Looking Ahead: The Road to the State Title
With this victory, RFA has sent a strong message to the entire state of New York. They have the skill, depth, and leadership to compete with the best. Coach Pete Keoviengsamay, who has been at the helm of the program for several years, will now turn his focus toward preparing his team for the next steps in the postseason. With a roster filled with talent, experience, and a determined mindset, RFA will be a force to be reckoned with as they continue their journey toward the state championship.
For New Hartford, the loss is certainly a tough one, but they should not be discouraged. They are a well-coached team with an immense amount of talent. They will use this defeat as motivation as they continue their quest to return to the top.
As the season continues to unfold, it’s clear that RFA’s victory over New Hartford was just the beginning. The Black Knights are hungry for more, and they have shown that they are ready to fight for a state title. The 2024 volleyball season is shaping up to be one for the ages, and this match will surely go down as one of the most exciting moments of the year.
This battle between RFA and New Hartford will live on in the memory of those who witnessed it—two teams with heart, passion, and a never-give-up attitude, providing a perfect example of the power and beauty of high school sports.
