Sometimes, a loss is exactly what a team needs.
For the Las Positas College women’s volleyball team, that wake-up call came on Sept. 3, when the team traveled to Modesto Junior College for its fourth game of the season. The Hawks dropped the first two sets by seven and six points, respectively, and dug deep to avoid a sweep. They found themselves in a thriller of a third set.
They eventually dropped it, 29-27. Las Positas headed home with a 3-0 defeat and a 2-2 record to start the season, and newfound hope.
And the Hawks haven’t lost again.
“Since then,” coach Jamie Hardenfeldt said, “we’ve been more intentional with the details, using serve pressure, first-ball contact, and communication.”
Las Positas ripped off 10 consecutive wins, improving to 12-2 overall. Since the Modesto match, the Hawks have taken 30 of their last 35 sets, winning those frames by an average of 4.9 points.
This is a historic start to the season. LPC is on its longest winning streak since the team debuted in 2018, and its next win would set a school record for victories in a season. The Hawks still have 12 games remaining. After coming close in 2024, the Hawks are already in a prime position for the first playoff berth in school history.
With seven returners this season, Las Positas has a better feel for what it takes to win, and it seems the freshmen have gotten the memo.
A big part of that is sophomore outside hitter Ainsley Wade.
Wade is a powerhouse. She elevates high and gets on top of the ball, and her spikes pack force behind them. Wade’s skills not only stand out on the court but also on the stat sheet. After the Hawks’ first 14 games, she is averaging 4.11 kills per set. That is the best on the team and ranks No. 10 among community college players in California.
When Wade gets up, the other half of the court knows to get ready.
“She gives our players confidence to take big swings,” Hadenfeldt said. “This team really enjoys going to battle together, and Ainsley drives that.”
AINSLEY WADE is producing like one of the best outside hitters in California and is leading the Hawks to their best season ever. (Photo by Alan Lewis/Special to The Express)
The Hawks’ scoring attack isn’t centered on one or two players, but they have multiple players who can each control their touch when the ball is on their side of the net.
One of the keys for the team so far has been its commitment. Hadenfeldt raves about how this year’s group plays off each other and how they all compete. Their energy and style of play exude a team that wants to win for each other.
“Their special ingredient has been buy-in,” Hadenfeldt said. “Their chemistry and cohesiveness are outstanding, and they genuinely enjoy playing together.”
But with two games before Coast Conference-North games start, Hadenfeldt doesn’t want to look too far ahead.
“We are focused on one match at a time,” she said.
The Hawks finished last season 12-8, their best ever. Their only other winning record came in their inaugural season in 2018. That was the foundation for the success they’re experiencing this season.
This team’s newfound strength doesn’t rely solely on its offense, but on its touch.
Madelyn Huddleston, a freshman outside hitter, is second on the team in kills with 176. But she also leads the team in digs with 3.67 per set.
Huddleston’s versatility embodies the Hawks’ play style. She plays offense and defense and constantly finds ways to manufacture points and impact the game. She was critical in the five-set win at Reedley on Sept. 19 to keep the streak alive.
“Madi put the team on her back and delivered when we needed her most,” Hadenfeldt said. “It showcased her competitiveness, selflessness, and ability to lead and stay composed in the toughest moments. Performances like that remind you just how special she is — and the best is still yet to come for her.”
MADI HUDDLESTON is a freshman but has already emerged as one of the Hawks’ most complete players. (Photo by Alan Lewis/Special to The Express)
Side out is where the Hawks shine. They work cohesively to get the ball over the net, putting the onus on the opponent to limit mistakes. But they aren’t just defensive. With experienced setter Jade Dancel orchestrating the offense, setting up Wade and Huddleston, the Hawks rank No. 30 in the state in points per set.
“The team has a balanced offense,” Hadenfeldt said. “Lots of players that can put the ball away,” good at controlling our half of the court, and not afraid to take big swings in big moments.”
The Hawks are making history, and they believe they are far from done.
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TOP PHOTO: Ainsley Wade, center, has been the main catalyst for the Hawks. Her 181 kills so far this season rank No. 20 in the state. (Alan Lewis/Special to The Express)
Camille Leduc is the Managing Editor of The Express. Follow her on Instagram @camille.x.frances.
