Dons show good balance in season-opening win

Santa Barbara battled through oven-like conditions at Harvard Westlake’s gym and pulled out a four-set victory in the season opener for both girls volleyball teams on Tuesday in North Hollywood.

The Dons used a balanced attack to win 25-21, 25-23, 21-25, 25-23.

Jessyca Beksa led the way with nine kills, while Lucie Simmons and Tessa Dewell each added eight kills.

Santa Barbara makes its home debut in the refurbished J.R. Richards Gym on Thursday against Royal at 6:30 p.m.