436th MXS defeats 436th LRS in intramural volleyball

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Chuck Walker
  • 436th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
DOVER AIR FORCE BASE, Del. --  Coming into the season the 436th Maintenance Squadron volleyball team runners-up in last year's base championship set the goal of winning the title this year.

They took one more step toward that goal by defeating the 436th Logistics Readiness Squadron 25-14, 21-25 and 15-9 April 15, 2013, at the fitness center on Dover Air Force Base, Del.

Patrick Piazza served 15 service points and five aces and Emmanuel Perez slammed home five kills to lead the 436th MXS, who remained unbeaten on the season at 3-0.

"We have a lot of new guys on our team but we've been practicing a lot this year and our team has gotten a lot smoother," said Eddie Alesana, 436th MXS player-coach. "We basically have two teams and we work it where we try to get everyone playing time. It's worked out so far, we're undefeated."

In game one, Perez and Alesana each had three kills and Piazza served 10 service points, three of which were aces as they won game one 25-14.

Perez said he was glad he could help his team to the victory.

"I was able to get some good solid hits and we did a good job on the floor talking as a team and setting each other up," Perez said. "Everybody has been playing real hard because we are trying to win the base championship. This year is our year."

In game two, LRS held on for a 25-21 victory, forcing a third and deciding game to determine the winner.

Perez and Piazza each slamed home two kills, while Piazza served five service points and Roger Parsons served two service aces as the 436th MXS won the rubber game 15-9.

Piazza, who played with the 436th Aerial Port Squadron last season, said he has had no trouble fitting in to his new squad, although he said it is kind of strange playing with them instead of against them.

"I keep talking to the guys stressing the importance of getting serves over the net and making sure they stay in," Piazza said. "A 100 mph. serve that goes out of bounds is just a point for the other team. Getting your serves in keeps rallies going and helps lead to victories."

Olivia Ocampo, 436th LRS coach, said her team (2-1) would try to communicate better in the games ahead.
"I thought we worked better as team," Ocampo said. "In the little time we've had to prepare we've really come together. We just need to work on the basics, controlling the ball and communication."

Alesana said his team would still work toward their ultimate goal, the base championship.

"We need to keep working on our passing and serving and we will be able to achieve our goals. We've finished in second place the last two years. This year has got to be our year."