Santa Barbara High suffered a few losses at the California Challenge this weekend but head coach John Gannon was looking at the bright side.
“We played some incredible competition and it definitely made us stronger and we’re better for it,” Gannon said.
The Dons defeated St. Mary’s on Saturday but fell in other matches to Mater Dei, Rancho Cucamonga, Del Norte and Ironwood Ridge of Arizona. Rancho Cucamonga is the No. 2 ranked team in the Dons’ CIF division.
Gannon noted Jessyca Beksa and Bella Gniadek for their hitting and setting, respectively.
He also mentioned the heat, which reached 102 degrees outside and permeated the gym.
“It was the hottest coaching experience I’ve ever had,” he said.
The Dons return to Channel League play on Tuesday at Buena.
