Although Marist had bested Sandy Creek twice during the regular season, the Lady Patriots had the last laugh on Saturday in the Class AAAA state final at Marietta High School.

In the best of five match, Sandy Creek won three and lost one to capture the school's first state title in volleyball. The Lady Patriots have been no strangers to the state Final Four or championship games, finishing last year as the state runner-up in Class AAA.

Sandy Creek won the first game 25-23, lost the next one 16-25, and then won the next two 25-23 and 25-21.

Coach Paul Collins stated that all of the girls played extremely well and added that Cheri Smith had the match of her career. She recorded 15 kills, 15 assists, an ace and six digs. Jennifer Dunn had the winning kill at match point, nine kills total, an ace and nine digs, while Katie Davenport had six kills, including three in a row inthe final game that factored in big. She also had eight digs and an ace to win the first game.

“Mallie Haumann had 18 digs and her passing of the serve was outstanding and was critical to the success we had offensively,” said Collins. “Chanelle Smith once again came through with timely and extremely effective serving, leading the team with five aces. She had seven kills and was second on the team with 14 digs and a block.”

Danelle Smith picked up 11 kills and proved to be nearly unstoppable on offense, adding three blocks and four digs. Samantha Bryan led the team with 26 assists and had two aces and nine digs, while Maribeth Farr helped defensively by putting up put wall in front of the Marist hitters and came away with two blocks.

“Words cannot describe the emotions and feelings of this win, made all the more special after losing last year to Columbus,” said Collins. “This was a great win over one of the best volleyball programs in the state. I am so very proud of each of the girls and happy for them all, especially the four seniors. They will leave Sandy Creek having achieved the ultimate goal of winning a state championship.”