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Volleyball: PHU sweeps Seminole

 
Published Sept. 2, 2015

PALM HARBOR — "I'm happy to be here at Palm Harbor. It was time for a change."

A simple but telling statement from new Hurricanes coach Dexter Rogers, who, when given a chance to reminisce after a straight-set victory over his former Seminole High charges on Tuesday night, stayed focused on his future.

"I tell them all the time that expectations have to be high," said Rogers of a team that been in the Class 7A region Final Four the past six seasons. "If we don't execute, we're not doing the things we have to do to get better."

The Warhawks took leads early in the last two sets, building their largest advantage of the night at 8-1 in Set 3. But strong play from freshman Jessica Angelo combined with unforced Seminole errors led PHU to a 25-11, 25-12, 25-21 decision.

"We had far less errors in the third set," Seminole coach Madison Burr said. "It's mostly game experience. They all have potential, and I'm excited to see how much they grow this season."

PHU saw Angelo shine after stepping into older sister and captain Julia's starting role. Jessica Angelo delivered five kills and two digs in a Set 2 win and scored two of the match's final three points.

"I was really nervous at first because I've never played on such a good team, but as I kept playing I got more comfortable," the younger Angelo said. "All of the girls are so good, every one of them makes me better. They all push me to do more."

And after suffering through seven of the streak's 10 straight losses on the Seminole side, Rogers has a goal for the Hurricanes.

"When I first walked in the gym, every sport has a banner up. We want ours up. We already have a level, winning PCAC and districts. Why can't we raise that level (to win regions and state)? With a little more hard work and dedication, why not?"