Centennial Bulldogs Fall in Thriller on Senior Night
By: Verena Jarvis- Torres
Bark! Voice of The Bulldog
Staff Writer
In front of an electric home crowd Tuesday night, the Centennial Bulldogs boys volleyball team battled fiercely but fell just short to the Palo Verde Panthers, 3-2, in a clash between two of the state's top teams.
It was also Senior Night at Centennial, where fans packed the stands to honor the team’s graduating players. Emotions ran high as each senior walked across the court with their families, receiving loud cheers and heartfelt recognition. “It was surreal,” said senior Josh Wagner. “I’ve been playing here for four years, and getting that kind of love from the crowd meant everything.”
Centennial led 2-1 after three sets but couldn’t close it out, losing the final two sets 25-20 and 17-15. Lincoln Larson led the Bulldogs with 21 kills and four aces, while RJ Regalado racked up 35 assists. “We gave it everything,” said senior Chase Roberts. “It hurts, but I’m proud of how we fought.”
“This group of seniors has left a legacy,” said Coach Heaton. “They’ve poured their hearts into this program and shaped our culture.” Senior Austin Randolph added, “I wouldn’t trade these memories for anything.”