Mesa, Ariz. — The No. 1-seeded OUAZ Beach Volleyball team opened play at the GSAC Championships on Thursday with a split day, earning a 3-1 victory over No. 4 seed Arizona Christian before falling 3-1 to No. 2 seed and No. 4-ranked The Master's in the semifinal round at the Arizona Athletic Grounds.
The Spirit began the tournament with a strong showing against Arizona Christian, securing three points to advance. Olga Romero and Shayna Martinez delivered a key win in their pairing, while Katy Shockey and Alicia Romero added another point with a solid performance. Mariella Ramos and Gabriela Corrales clinched the team victory with a win in their flight, giving OUAZ the 3-1 result as the top pairing match went unfinished.
In the semifinal matchup, OUAZ faced a tough test against The Master's. Alicia Romero and Katy Shockey provided the lone point for the Spirit with a win in their flight, but The Master's captured three flights to secure the dual and move into the championship round.
With the GSAC Championship set in a double-elimination format, OUAZ remains in contention and will face Arizona Christian in a rematch on Friday, April 10 at 10 a.m. in a win-or-go-home matchup. The winner will advance to take on The Master's in the GSAC Championship match at 1 p.m. as the Spirit look to fight their way back into the title dual.
