Mira Costa Spikers Drop CIF Champion Loyola in Three Straight to Open Season

Mira Costa, ranked second in the Southern Section 4-A Division, opened the volleyball season Wednesday by beating two-time defending CIF champion Loyola, 15-6, 15-8, 15-0, in a non-league match at Mira Costa.

The Mustangs received stellar play from several juniors who are competing for starting spots. Outside hitter David Swatik had 11 kills in 17 attempts, setter Canyon Ceman converted 9 of 12 kills and middle blocker Greg Shankle blocked effectively.

“My juniors did not play with any kind of fear,” said Mira Costa Coach Mike Cook. “It was a very good opener.”

Loyola, which graduated five of six starters from last year’s 4-A champion team, moved out to a 7-2 lead in the second game. But the Mustangs rallied to finish it with a 13-1 run without the benefit of a timeout.

“We had a lot more cohesion than they did,” Cook said. “They will get better, but I think we can get better, too.”

Another junior, middle blocker Pat Ivie, had 5 kills in 9 attempts and senior outside hitter Kevin Burd led the Mustangs 11 serving points.

Mira Costa resumes play March 10 at home against Palisades, the defending L.A. City 4-A champion.