The Skyridge boys volleyball team concluded its season following a 3-0 loss to No. 16 Westlake in the first round of the Class 6A state tournament on Saturday, May 2.
Westlake secured the victory at Skyridge's home court with set scores of 25-23, 25-19, and 25-15. The Thunder will advance to face top-seeded Lehi in the second round.
Westlake's performance was led by Lincoln Hulse, who recorded 44 assists. Brigham Draper contributed 16 kills, while Alex Harris added 10 kills and five blocks. Defensively, Jax Burr provided 24 digs to help control the match.
Skyridge showed early strength in the first set, trading points with Westlake before the Thunder took control late in the frame. During the second set, the Falcons engaged in long rallies that energized the home crowd.
In the third set, Skyridge attempted to rally against elimination, but Westlake ultimately secured the sweep.
Key contributors for the Falcons included junior outside hitter Teiva Fonua, who delivered powerful serves, and senior middle blocker Trey Mahe, who recorded multiple blocks. Senior setter Colin Ludlow provided precise sets, while senior libero Fihi Fainga offered back-row stability.
Skyridge head coach Michael Muaina noted that the season served as a period of development for the program. He stated that the players focused on improving their skill sets and growing as a team, though he acknowledged the difficulty of the playoff loss.
The Falcons will depart with nine graduating seniors, whom Muaina described as great leaders. Despite the loss of these seniors, the coach expressed confidence in the upcoming talent and plans to focus on off-season preparation.
Muaina emphasized that the strength of the team lies in their brotherhood and the trust they have built with one another.
