New Kent volleyball captures first regional title since 2021

New Kent's Lady Trojans celebrate with their trophy after capturing the Region 3A volleyball championship.

Robb Johnson photo

It’s been four years since New Kent’s Lady Trojans captured a regional volleyball championship. That drought ended on Nov. 12.

New Kent easily disposed Bay Rivers District rival Tabb Lady Tigers 25-15, 25-14, 25-11, to win the Region 3A title.

There were very minimal issues with the Lady Trojans. Every set seemed to me orchestrated to sheer dominance. After winning the first two sets, the third frame consisted of a masterpiece of teamwork. The hosts jumped out to a 10-1 lead, which Tabb could not recover from. From there, New Kent swept the match and positioned themselves to host a state playoff contest against the visiting Meridian Lady Mustangs on Nov. 15, a team they are familiar with from previous years.

New Kent Lady Trojans Head Coach Stuart Burnett talked about the team connecting since they have become completely healthy.

“Since the Grafton game, we got our seniors back and we have players In positions that bring experience and composure with it,” he said. “It helps our younger players.

“Our offense is good and we talked about Tabb having big hitters,” Burnett continued. “But we said let’s focus on our game and it doesn’t matter who is up front, we are going to play our game.”