The McLean High School girls volleyball team swept the Thomas Jefferson Lady Colonials last night in three straight (25-13, 25-17, 25-21) which advanced the Highlanders to the semi-final round of the Liberty District Tournament.

Head Coach Steve Stotler applauded his team's performance, particularly outstanding passing by libero Alex Yensen and the rest of the back row. Fine setting by Kate Comey led to impressive kills by Teka Tshishimbi, Cat Davis and Hannah Bryan.

For the season, the Highlanders (11-4) finished tied for second in the district with Stone Bridge and Madison.

McLean found its ascent to the district finals halted on Tuesday, October 30, when the Highlanders fell to Langley at Stone Bridge. McLean lost in three (22-25, 9-25, 16-25)

As part of the proceedings Tuesday night, all-district players were recognized including McLean’s Teka Tshishimbi (First Team), setter Kate Comey (Second Team) and Cat Davis (Honorable Mention). 

The season doesn't yet end for the Highlanders who move on to the Northern Region Tournament. Their next match is in the first round of the Regionals on Monday, Nov. 5.

McLean qualified for the Regional tournament thanks in part to a thrilling, comeback victory Tuesday, October 30 over Stone Bridge. The Highlanders topped the Bulldogs in four games (25-27, 29-27, 25-19, 25-21). After losing the first game and being down by a wide margin in the second, the Highlanders rallied to win with strong play by the entire team and the impressive hitting and serving of junior Cat Davis.

The McLean gym erupted when the final point was scored. Coach Steve Stotler echoed the fans’ sentiments after the game by saying, “This was truly a team effort. Despite losing the first game, the girls dug deep and never lost their focus. It was especially sweet to have such a good win on Senior Night.”