Southwest Legacy Clinches First Playoff Berth

Southwest Legacy secured its first-ever playoff berth.

The Titans advanced to the postseason after defeating the Southwest Dragons. During Tuesday's practice at the school, head coach Amanda Esparza, now in her second year leading the program, said the team's preparation dates back to last season. "We tell these girls like, 'Man, we've been going since July,' but when you really think about it, we've been really going since last season," Esparza said.

The Titans will play O'Connor in the bi-district round on Thursday. The match is set for the South San Durbon Center, with the first serve at 6:30 p.m.

Esparza credited the squad's commitment. "While we know we're putting in so much work, so is everybody else, so in those moments of toughness, it's just like, 'Hey, I know we're tired, but everybody is tired,'" Esparza said. "They bought in, they trusted us as a coaching staff, which I'm forever grateful for because whatever we asked, they've done, and it led us to this moment."

Two Titans reached statistical milestones this season. Junior setter and outside hitter Alaynnah Martinez recorded 1,000 career assists and 1,000 digs. Senior defensive specialist Lindsey Ortega also surpassed 1,000 career digs.

Martinez said the team's daily work in the gym drives the results. "Every single day, in the gym," Martinez said. "In all the running if everything, that's what we needed. That's what it takes."