Volleyball opens with win

The Saddleback women’s volleyball team started their 2009 season on a winning note.

The Gauchos defeated Southwestern three games to one to take the match last Wednesday. Saddleback dropped the first game 25-16, but when on to win the next three.

The Gauchos won the second game by a score of 25-16.

In the fourth game, the Gauchos were in command with a 20-11 lead, but they let the lead slip away. The Jaguars fought back to tie the score at 23 all. The Gauchos would survive the predator-like attack of the Jaguars and win the game 25-23.

Former Capistrano Valley outside-hitter Melissa Chavez had 14 kills, while her former Cougar teammate, Denielle Espejo, added 34 assists in the victory. Morgan Kavanaugh had three blocks for Saddleback. Christina Licciardi, another Capistrano Valley alumnus, had 15 digs. Rachel Talafus had 13 digs.

The Gauchos play at Grossmont today at 6 p.m. They will attend the Santa Ana Tournament this Saturday and matches will occur all day.