Hunter sweeps West Jordan to stay perfect in region

WEST JORDAN — The Hunter volleyball team may not be used to being the team to beat, but if the demeanor of the players is any indication, they like how it feels.

"It's different," said Hunter coach Pam Olsen after the Wolverines swept West Jordan 25 - 16, 25 -13, 25-16 Tuesday night to remain unbeaten in region play.

"Everyone is gunning for us; we have to come out strong every night. Every team in our region is scrappy and we need to work hard not to make mistakes."

For the last four years, Hunter has had to deal with perennial volleyball power Skyline and another strong program, Taylorsville. But the new realignment changed that, putting the Warriors and Eagles in Region 2, while leaving Hunter in Region 3 with West Jordan, Copper Hills, Bingham, Riverton and Kearns.

The Wolverines have taken advantage of their new-found dominance and are now 4-0. But Olsen gets nervous when talking about her team's success in the new region.

"We have a big game on Thursday," she said of the team's Riverton match. She praised the effort of her players, who are cooperating more as a team than they have in recent years.

"They're finally getting the whole team thing," she said, smiling.

Middle hitter Rosey Falemaka has been consistent and effective at the net every game for Hunter.

"She's been averaging five to eight blocks per match," Olsen said. "She's been very consistent and that's helped us."

Then she leans over and knocks on the wooden floor. Even the coach is trying to adjust to constant success.

Falemaka had a solid match against West Jordan, which also boasts two strong middle hitters. Taisa Thompson and Julianne Tialavea both had some key blocks and kills for the Jaguars.

"I thought we could have played with them — especially in that first game," said West Jordan coach Jeanette Larsen. "We made a strong showing, they're just so solid. That first game just kind of took the air out of us."

Outside hitter Jessie Smith and setter Moe Ki also played well for West Jordan, and the two teamed up for some scorching hits and breath-taking saves.

"We get our momentum from our defense, but Hunter was just too solid," Larsen said.

Hunter also has depth, dressing nearly twice as many varsity players as the Jaguars.