By Harper Gambini

The Cardinal Newman girls' volleyball team wasted no time making a statement in their league opener Tuesday night, rolling past Montgomery in straight sets, 25-8, 25-20, 25-12.

With the victory, the Cardinals improved to 10-8 overall and 1-0 in league play, while Montgomery fell to 7-5, 0-1 in conference action.

Newman's offense was led by senior outside hitter Cienna Alvarez, who powered down 15 kills and added 9 digs to spark the Cardinals on both ends of the court. Senior Summer Binder provided a steady presence at the net with 10 kills, while Sophomore libero Sabina Walsh held the back row together with 6 digs.

The Cardinals also got a lift from the service line. Junior Jordan Espinosa and senior Giana Tamayo each recorded two aces, helping Newman keep momentum during key stretches. Running the offense was senior setter Kimmy Wilson, who dished out a match-high 32 assists in the win.

Head coach Daryl Kapis praised his team's all-around effort and singled out the contributions of senior defensive specialist Morgan Cameron, who came up with several key digs to extend rallies.

"It was a total team effort tonight," Kapis said. "Everyone contributed in different ways, and that balance really allowed us to stay in rhythm."

The Cardinals will look to carry their momentum into their next match-up against Ukiah, a team that handed them a tough loss last season.