Men’s Volleyball Falls at Santiago Canyon, Returns Home to Host Orange Coast

ORANGE, CA (3/27/2026) -- Palomar men's volleyball dropped a straight-set decision Friday night to Santiago Canyon College, falling 25-21, 25-12, 25-19.

The Comets were competitive in the opening set, hitting .269 and keeping pace early before Santiago Canyon pulled away. Palomar totaled 28 kills in the match but was unable to slow down the Hawks' efficient offense, which hit .431 on the night.

Tyler Smith led the Comets with a team-high 12 kills on a .304 hitting percentage, while Connor Ferguson added seven kills on an efficient .400 clip. Aiden Gardiner contributed three kills, and Todd Clemens chipped in three kills and 16 assists in directing the offense.

Defensively, Palomar recorded 22 digs and added two service aces as they worked to stay within reach throughout the match.

The Comets will return home for their next conference matchup, hosting Orange Coast College.