Staff Writer Sabrina Hau comments on the Varsity Volleyball series.
Across three unforgettable matches between the Mixed, Women’s, and Men’s teams, the determination of all players on the court demonstrated KCL Volleyball’s strength, which allowed them to take home not just two out of three wins, but the hearts of an ecstatic crowd that witnessed every spike, dive, and chant.
Below shows the overall match results across all 8 games played:
| Match | Result | Winner |
| Mixed | 2–0 | KCL |
| Women’s | 2–1 | KCL |
| Men’s | 0–3 | UCL |
While UCL’s men secured a final consolation win, KCL’s dual victories in the Mixed and Women’s categories sealed the night in red’s favor.
Mixed Volleyball Team’s Showdown
The first game allowed UCL to strike first, setting the tone with a quick opening score. The rally started off strong, with KCL answering immediately through a sharp spike that ignited the crowd. Early on, the team’s defense showed incredible determination, countering UCL’s attacks that led to an 18-18 tie. But each comeback from UCL only seemed to fuel KCL’s fire, which led the first set to end narrowly in our favour (27–25).
“My thoughts before and after the game was just pure amazement at how everything was coming together. I was happy we came out with a win.” – Joshua De Peralta, KCLMXVC Captain
The second set saw UCL mounting a stubborn comeback, inching from 5–10 to 9–11. Still, KCL’s team and strategies outmatched the momentum, bringing back a steady lead against UCL with a 15–23. Twice, the volleyball flew into the audience, each time prompting a chaotic mix of cheers and good-natured boos as the crowd tossed it back to the court. With 17–25, KCL claimed the second and final set. The Game 2 win sealed a 2–0 victory, chants filled the gym one last time, and the crowd responded with applause that refused to die down.
“I felt like the game was really well played by our team. We all went out there and had fun, which was the most important thing for varsity. All members of the team 100% deserve recognition.” – Joshua De Peralta, KCLMXVC Captain
Women’s Volleyball Clash and Comeback
The women’s match showcased immense tactical discipline and resilience. In the start, UCL took an early lead, claiming the first set after a strong offensive display. Momentum briefly faltered when consecutive attack attempts were blocked, allowing UCL to inch closer. UCL claimed the first game 11–25.
“In all honesty, I think the feeling going into varsity was pretty uncertain. It took us a while to find a rhythm, and I think the first set was evidence of that.” – Josie Hallatt, KCLWVC Captain
However, the women’s teams’ approach to the court reflected the essence of volleyball, which focused on tactical balance and collective trust that brought their energy back in their second and third sets.
“Fortunately, our setter Kincey (#11) went on a massive serving streak during the second set, which not only put us ahead in points but gave us the confidence we needed to finish the game strong.” – Josie Hallatt, KCLWVC Captain
KCL once again set the tempo, scoring first through fluid teamwork. Their momentum shifted when KCL surged ahead from 6–4 to 11–16. UCL briefly regained footing, but KCL’s calm execution quickly turned the tide, and soon a string of consecutive points sealed UCL’s fate. The matches concluded with KCL winning the overall game. In the end, players discussed individual improvements and collective progress, highlighting the importance of growth through leaving “fewer mistakes, better rhythm, and stronger teamwork”.
Men’s Volleyball Face-Off
Before a single serve was made, UCL’s men’s team made their statement clearly by arriving in coordinated suits, projecting confidence and an unmistakably “quintessentially British” competitive bravado. It was an intimidation tactic that drew mixed reactions of both admiration and defiance from the crowd.
The first serve cut through KCL’s defense immediately, followed by another clean winner, putting UCL ahead 1–4. KCL’s captain managed to rally back with a crucial point, narrowing the gap to 2–4, but UCL’s aggression was already taking control.
“Since they’re [UCL] currently in a division above us, I knew they would absolutely elevate the competition.” – Rareș Filimon, KCLMVC Captain
In their second set, the first few minutes were neck and neck: 3–2 UCL, then a tight 4–4 tie. KCL was visibly improving, allowing one spike to punch through UCL’s wall. However, in an intense rally, KCL celebrated a point they assumed was theirs, only for the referee to rule in UCL’s favor. Shortly after slowing the tempo with deliberate play in an effort to destabilize UCL’s rhythm, the pressure from UCL’s heavy hitters proved too much to suppress. Although the Men’s team had lost their overall game, each player held their head high and exchanged handshakes.
“As Captain, I knew I had to find a way to make the whole team as happy as possible, and that’s tough when everyone goes into varsity with different expectations.” – Rareș Filimon, KCLMVC Captain
What Volleyball is All About
Ultimately, all three teams gave performances that showcased the spirit of university sport that was both emotional and filled with pride. Each team had showcased its own unique strengths and technical abilities.
“I think we demonstrated that we can succeed against high-level teams at this year’s Varsity against UCL.” – Josie Hallatt, KCLWVC Captain
Looking forward, KCL Volleyball aims to continue its growth on and off the court, not only to strengthen its competitive standing within the sporting landscape but also to nurture an environment where every member can develop both their skills and love for the game.
“My biggest advice is to play the game, get obsessed, and you’ll improve.” – Joshua De Peralta, KCLMXVC Captain
“Just start. Early or late, competitive or not: none of it matters so long as you become a part of the extraordinary community that this sport has helped us develop!” – Rareș Filimon, KCLMVC Captain
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