Westfield girls volleyball celebrated their senior night in the best way possible, earning a two set win, 25-14 and 25-11, over the Linden Tigers. With family, friends and supporters in attendance, the Blue Devils took the court with an opportunity to honor their seniors while finishing the night with a strong performance in the first round of the 2026 Union County Tournament.
The match was about more than the final result. Senior night gave Westfield a chance to recognize the players who have dedicated years of hard work, commitment and energy to the volleyball program. As the seniors took the court for one of their final home matches, the team looked to make the occasion memorable with a win.
The Blue Devils came into the match focused on executing their game plan and playing together as a team. Throughout the game, the Blue Devils worked to establish their rhythm and maintain their momentum through the two sets. This gave them the ability to win both sets on their way to sweeping the match. Throughout the first set, both teams were neck to neck, with occasional timeouts from Linden, eventually leading into the next set.
“I think we had a rocky start, but then in the second set, we came together and pounded the ball,” senior Karolina Gawkoska said.
While the result was important, the atmosphere surrounding the match added another layer of significance. Senior night served as a reminder of the time and effort the graduating players have invested in the program, from practices, matches and tournaments to the relationships they have built with their teammates.
Junior Sonia Hemnadi said, “I’m honestly pretty sad [the seniors] are leaving. I am glad we have this night to show our appreciation for some of my best friends that I have made while playing volleyball.”
The Blue Devils’ performance also highlighted the importance of teamwork in a sport that depends on communication, truth and coordination. Every point requires players to work together, whether it’s through a serve, a pass, a set or an attack. On a night dedicated to the senior girls, that sense of unity was especially meaningful.
“We got to know how others thought about us and appreciated us. Sometimes when you are playing a sport and balancing a bunch of other things at the same time outside of sports, you can feel lost. I think that it is important to know that you matter and people care that you’re there,” senior Addison Filipps said.
The night was an emotional moment, especially for head coach Beverly Torok, as the team honored the seniors for their soon to be final contributions. Their hard work along with Torok’s leadership and support have helped shape the program into what it is known for today.
“It’s sad to see them go. Co-captain Lillian Wood played varsity for three years and combined it’s a really nice group of seniors this year. They work really well together and have a lot of chemistry,” Torok said. “I am going to miss them, they are all so talented.”
Now advancing in the UCT, the Blue Devils will play against Summit on Friday at 4 p.m. at home.
