The PMHS volleyball team was triumphant Wednesday over rivals Rye in its first league game. After a dominating 25-15 first set win, the Pelicans never looked back, completing a three-set sweep over the Garnets. 

Junior Tiana Richardson led the team to victory with 12 kills and two blocks. Junior Bailey Katz also helped with six kills, one ace and two digs. The defense was also a huge key in the victory, being led by seniors Dorina Shkoza, who had 21 digs and three aces. 

Senior captain Julia Wall, the current school record holder for most assists in a game, had another strong performance with 24 assists, five aces and 11 digs. Wall was a key player on last season’s 12-1 team and has continued her success in her senior campaign.

Although starting off the season slowly, the girls have a current record of 6-1, excluding out-of-schedule tournament play. The team defeated highly-regarded programs such as John Jay, Yorktown and Ardsley to close out their non-league schedule.

Last year, the Pelicans were the Section D league champions. After Covid-19 abruptly ended their postseason run, the players hope to win back-to-back league championships, while aiming for the section title as well.

“Today’s game against Rye was a great reflection of how well we play as a team,” senior Analia Casey said. “It was our first league game and the goal is to be undefeated in the league, like last year. This year we have a much harder schedule, but (we have) not let it affect us, and we have been playing strong all season.”

In the coming week, Pelham will face Sleeping Hollow on the road before coming home to a matchup against long-time rival Eastchester.