Sports: TP turns even matchup into rout

TP turns even matchup into rout

By EMILY NIPPS, Times Staff Writer

TAMPA -- By any other account besides Tuesday's score, Tampa Prep and Academy of the Holy Names aren't that different.

Sure, Tampa Prep has a more storied volleyball history. And yes, the Terrapins are defending a state title while the Jaguars haven't won one since 1977.

Times have changed, though. And when the talent and experience of the rosters are compared, the difference is negligible. But no one would know this from Tampa Prep's 15-7, 15-1, 15-5 road victory. No one, that is, except the coaches. "I'm surprised," Tampa Prep's Paul McAdoo said. "I think the difference in the score didn't reflect what (the Jaguars) are capable of and how good they are."

Jaguars coach Doug Chinchar called it "the Tampa Prep mystique" and said there is little he can do to keep his team from folding under the pressure of powerhouses Tampa Prep and Berkeley Prep.

"I had no idea what to say to them," Chinchar said. "We tried babying them, yelling at them, patting them on the back.

"They all play club volleyball together and do fine against each other. I don't know what it is. Maybe if we put (the Terrapins) in a different uniform, announce them as a different team next time?"

By and large, Tampa Prep (7-1) is no weakling, even after losing several senior starters from last season. Rebuilding behind returning starter Kelly Phillips, the only senior, and a few other weapons, the potential to win another state title in the coming seasons is there.

Against the Jaguars (6-3), the Terrapins were an "ensemble cast," as McAdoo put it, keeping their opponents guessing with mixed attacks and aggressive defense.

Six-foot sophomore hitter Jess Thomas led with nine kills, and Phillips had six.

Sophomore setter Lauren Miles had 10 digs, and Phillips and freshman Rachael Phillips had three blocks. The Jaguars did not have a run of more than a couple of points despite a balanced attack and stubborn defense. Junior Emily Sadtler had 10 kills, and freshman setter Kathryn Reina had 13 assists.

"I wouldn't expect to see that score again," McAdoo said.

"I think the next time we see them, it'll be a closer match."