By James Sablan
james@mvariety.com
Variety News Staff
TANAPAG Middle School and Francisco M. Sablan Middle School continue to sit at the top of the leaderboard in the girls middle school division of the PSS–NMIVA Interscholastic Volleyball League SY25-26 after improving their records to three wins during Tuesday’s games at the Koblerville gym.
Tanapag Middle School delivered a commanding performance against Dandan Middle School, triumphing in two consecutive sets, 21-11, 21-17.
Precision and consistency were the main factors behind TMS’ dominance. Coached by Jave Sablan and Beatrice Fatialofa, the squad executed their orders flawlessly, with great set-ups leading to strong spike finishes to establish control of the first set. The defensive efforts were anchored by Miku Sharry, Mia Rogopes, Aaleyah Fatialofa, and Ziella Sablan.
Although TMS committed their fair share of errors — which allowed DMS to fight back — Tanapag’s relentless pressure made it difficult for the latter’s defense to recover, and DMS eventually fell, 21-11.
With their backs against the wall, DMS began their comeback attempt in the second set. Complemented by better floor communication and defensive coverage, DMS mounted a strong challenge, trading points with TMS for the first 10 minutes.
However, TMS continued to play the role of aggressor, highlighted by their ability to execute powerful overhead serves that went unanswered, allowing them to regain a safe lead.
The back-and-forth battle continued, with DMS closing the distance once again. But despite their efforts, TMS’ synergy between the setters and hitters proved crucial in the final moments, allowing them to pull away with their second-set win to secure the match, 21-17.
Also sharing the spotlight was Francisco M. Sablan Middle School which collected its third win, defeating Saipan Community School in two straight sets, 21-8, 21-13.
Joining the winners’ circle were Hopwood Middle School over Mount Carmel School, 21-13, 16-21, 15-11; Grace Christian Academy over Saipan International School, 21-17, 21-17; HMS II over SIS II, 21-16, 21-18; and DMS II over FMS II, 21-8, 17-21, 15-6.
James Sablan has been a sports reporter for Variety since 2013. He was a liberal arts student of Northern Marianas College and covers all local sports.
