GIRLS VOLLEYBALL LEAGUE PREVIEW: Parlier continues development in NWSL

FRESNO COUNTY – Now that the time has come to blow the whistle on another season of girls varsity volleyball, one of the most competitive leagues from last season could feature a surprise team that took a gigantic leap in their development.

The Parlier Panthers (17-15/2-7) may have finished eight in the 10 team Northwest Sequoia League (NWSL) last season. But considering the Panthers won only one game in 2023, their 2024 campaign was a proud accomplishment. Parlier finally had a taste of the postseason, losing to Summit Charter Collegiate Academy (SCCA) in the opening round of the D VI Central Section Playoffs. 

With the loss of two captains and playmakers, the Panthers will have to find a way to scratch out some victories and claw their way back into contention with a young nucleus. 

Miah Solorio’s 43 kills, 17 aces and 15 blocks will be missed. Also gone from last season’s squad are former senior captain Anahi Heredia and Xitaly Bojorquez. 

If head coach Ruby Rodriguez’s squad plans to contend again, she’ll need this group of young players to grow up fast. Kassandra Bojorquez provided some surprises in her brief 29 sets played. And outside hitters Trinitey Alonso and Jasmin Renteria have potential. 

Even with this young roster, Parlier could find it tough to wrestle their way to the top of the NWSL. 

Fowler didn’t exactly turn heads last season, finishing 14-21 overall and 1-8 in league play. But despite the records, the Redcats managed to sneak their way into the Central Section D VI Playoffs. Fowler advanced all the way to the quarterfinals, where Delano knocked them off 3-1.

The Redcats return an athletic and more experienced roster, and if everything goes their way, a run to the top of the NWSL is possible. 

Junior setter Laila Zavala and senior libero Paige Peters could be two players to watch for this season. According to stats on Max Preps, Zavala produced 27 kills and 31 aces. And Peters finished with 162 digs and 20 aces. If Peters and Zavala are on the top of their games, the Redcats could be a fierce, offensive team. 

Fresno Christian, the league champs, flew all the way to the CIF D IV State Championships. The Eagles got their wings clipped by Summit Shasta (Daly City) 3-2 in the second round. 

Yosemite, Sierra and Caruthers all figure to remain at the top of NWSL play. And don’t be surprised if Liberty (Madera) and Chowchilla make things interesting.