Jessica Poole is a Cronkite School of Journalism student assigned to cover Thunderbird High School for AZPreps365.com

The Thunderbird Titans showcased their dominance on Wednesday night by defeating the Shadow Mountain Matadors in straight sets, 25-13, 25-16, 25-15, during their final 4A Skyline region game. 

The Titans (13-2,10-0) hosted the Matadors (3-12, 2-8) in front of an enthusiastic home crowd.  The victory secured the Titans’ third consecutive regional championship, cementing their place in the playoffs set to begin next week.

“We’re proud of our program,” Titans senior Naomi Walsh said. “We’ve been able to maintain our reputation. Everyone knows that we’re a big team to face in our region, so it feels good to win.” 

Last year, the Titans lost in the first round against the Saguaro Sabercats, 25-15, 25-17. 25-16. 

For Walsh and her teammates, Wednesday's victory was more than just a win, it was a testament to the hard work that the Titans have put in over the season to reach the top once again.

Earlier in the season, the Titans had already defeated the Matadors, but this time Shadow Mountain came prepared for a rematch.

Matadors coach Dane Downs acknowledged the challenge, sharing how his team embraced the opportunity to face such strong competitors. 

“We knew what we were up against,” Downs said. “They were region champions the last two years in a row and undefeated going into the playoffs last year. Our goal was to play against people like Hayven Lick because it makes you better. The whole night was a learning experience for my team.”

Downs emphasized that the game wasn’t just about the score but also about creating memories and honoring the seniors.

“Tonight was also all about the seniors, having them go out and just have fun, making memories, things that’ll last a lifetime, playing hard, never giving up,” Downs said. 

Thunderbird seniors Walsh and Lick, alongside junior Cecelia Bouchard and freshmen Brooklynn Gwinn and Lena Mearig, delivered a strong offensive performance, recording 43 kills and 86 assists. 

The Titans found a way to collaborate and navigate through challenges as a team.

 “We had to adapt due to a middle player’s injury,” Gwinn said. “We made it work. One of the right-side players moved to the middle.” 

The game not only decided a playoff spot but also served as a tribute to the seniors, who were celebrated with a Little Mermaid-themed Senior Night. The evening was filled with heartfelt speeches, a roaring cheering section of family and friends, and plenty of tears. 

Both Walsh and Lick are recognized as two of Arizona’s top volleyball players, with Walsh excelling in blocks and Lick leading in kills.

Both Lick and Walsh plan to continue their volleyball careers in college. Lick aims to pursue a career in athletic training, while Walsh plans to study political science. 

The Titans will host the first round of the 4A Skyline playoffs on Thursday. Details regarding their opponent and further event information will be announced on Friday.