Orcas Island volleyball 2025: Building champions and leaders on and off the court

Published 1:30 am Tuesday, November 25, 2025

By Declan O’Malley

Sounder contributor

Player quotes contributed by Cienna Richardson.

Orcas Island High School wrapped up a standout volleyball season with a trip to the WIAA State Championships at the Yakima SunDome, marking a memorable milestone for the program.

“This volleyball season has been one of the best seasons I’ve had. The team was so amazing and funny. The improvement I saw in everyone from the beginning of the season to the end is crazy — not only improvement, but confidence,” said player Sofia Mahoney.

Head coach Mallory Balcomb said it was an “incredible” experience for the team.

“Making it to the state tournament is something these girls have worked toward all season, and seeing their hard work pay off was really special,” she said. “Walking into that atmosphere — the energy, the level of competition, the excitement — it’s something they’ll remember for a long time. We’re proud we earned our spot there.”

Balcomb said the team’s fearlessness stood out immediately, especially in its opening match against the No. 1 seed. Taking a set off the top-ranked team was a defining moment.

“The girls communicated well, played with heart, and never backed down,” she said. “At the same time, the speed and consistency at the state level are a challenge for any team. Every point is contested, and small mistakes get magnified. The opponents pushed us, but the experience made us better.”

Balcomb emphasized that the impact of the state appearance extended far beyond the two matches.

“We’re extremely proud of how we competed, how we represented our school, and of the season we put together,” she said. “Making it to state was a testament to this group’s growth and to our senior leaders.”

According to OIHS Athletic Director Paul Steimel, the team’s culture of accountability, positivity and support was one of the most impressive elements of the season.

“Our volleyball team has done an outstanding job building a positive and supportive culture,” Steimel said. “Players push one another to improve, celebrate each other’s successes, and maintain a level of respect that reflects the best of high school athletics. This intentional focus on leadership, communication and support strengthened their performance and their connection as a team.”

Senior libero Maria Burns said her biggest takeaway from the season was seeing the payoff from months of hard work.

“Realizing that hard work really does pay off, and seeing how much we improved throughout the season as a team,” Burns said.

She added that miscommunication was one of the group’s challenges at times, but the team addressed it head-on.

“Sometimes miscommunications happen, but we talked it out and found a way to play as a team,” she said.

The state tournament itself was a highlight.

“Yakima was awesome,” Burns said. “It was super exciting to play there. Even though we knew we’d be going against elite teams, our team put out its best effort and never stopped fighting.”

Senior Vera Sassan said the season allowed her to grow in her leadership role.

“My biggest takeaway this season was learning how to communicate with a team in a leadership position,” Sassan said. “It was an extremely fun experience, and I couldn’t have asked for a better team to lead. I hope I set good examples for seasons to come.”

Joining Balcomb on the sidelines were assistant coaches Katie Spinner and Lisa Rios, both OIHS alumnae, along with former OIHS multi-sport athlete Hawley (first name not provided). Hawley said returning to coach in her hometown has been especially meaningful.

“It’s always been a dream of mine to come back to Orcas and coach,” Hawley said. “Growing up here and playing multiple sports gave me the opportunity to learn from many different coaches who made lasting impacts on my life. My hope is to help kids find their confidence and fire in their sport and in their lives.”

Hawley said she has great admiration for Balcomb.

“Mallory is a great coach who has played volleyball most of her life. I’ve learned so much from her and felt so supported,” she said.

She also praised Steimel’s leadership.

“I have a lot of admiration and respect for our AD, Paul Steimel. He has taught me a lot and is so great at what he does. He’s always supportive and has made such a difference in the program.”