Comets Sweep Rustlers in Home Opener

SAN MARCOS, CA (8/27/2025) -- In their first match on their home court this season, the Palomar College women's volleyball team gave their fans plenty to cheer about. The Comets controlled the night from start to finish, defeating Golden West College in straight sets, 25–23, 25–10, 25–17, to improve their record to 4–1.

The opening set was the tightest of the evening, with the Comets fending off a late Golden West push to claim a 25–23 win. From there, Palomar turned up the pressure, cruising through the second set 25–10 and closing the door with a steady 25–17 finish.

Freshman Reese Maffitt once again led the attack with 12 kills and added two aces. Fellow freshman Kate Johnson was nearly unstoppable, posting 10 kills on .529 hitting to go along with two blocks.

The Comets' offense showed its depth with multiple contributors. Sierra Schoenwald hit a blistering .583 with seven kills and two aces, while Emma Bambe added seven kills and a team-high 10 digs. Teiora Tinoisamoa chipped in seven kills and four block assists, giving Palomar a strong presence at the net.

Setter Caden Pinto guided the offense with 34 assists and also contributed seven digs and a block assist. Libero Kiana Merrill anchored the back row, tallying 10 digs.

By night's end, Palomar had out-hit the Rustlers .337 to .069, finishing with 45 kills and 12 team blocks. The convincing win not only secured the Comets' first home victory of the season, but also showed the balance and chemistry building within the lineup.

With their home opener behind them, the Comets will look to ride the energy from their crowd into the rest of their non-conference slate.