Comets Fall in Five-Set Battle to San Diego Miramar

SAN MARCOS, CA (11/5/2025) -- The Palomar College women's volleyball team went toe-to-toe with one of the state's top-ranked programs on Wednesday night, but came up just short in a five-set thriller against San Diego Miramar College. The Jets escaped the Dome with a 3–2 win (18–25, 25–22, 20–25, 25–15, 15–10), handing the Comets their first five-set loss at home this season.

A Back-and-Forth Battle

Palomar came out strong, taking the opening set 25–18 behind aggressive swings and tough serving. After Miramar evened the match, the Comets answered again with a 25–20 third-set win to reclaim momentum. The Jets, however, responded late, using a dominant fourth set to force a decisive fifth, where they pulled away in the closing points.

Offensive Highlights

Freshman Teiora Tinoisamoa led the way for the Comets with 12 kills and three blocks, while Emma Bambe added 10 kills, five aces, and seven digs in a dynamic all-around effort. Sierra Schoenwald hit .278 with six kills and a team-high seven block assists, and Dovie Daniels added four kills and six total blocks to help Palomar control the net early.

Setter Caden Pinto guided the offense with 33 assists and 10 digs, while libero Kiana Merrill anchored the back row with 12 digs and a service ace. Reese Maffitt contributed six kills and 13 digs, while Charlie McLaughlin added key defensive plays off the bench.

Playing Up to the Competition

Despite the loss, the Comets' performance once again showcased their ability to push top-tier opponents to the limit. Palomar held Miramar to a .149 team hitting percentage and tallied 16 total team blocks, one of their best defensive outings of the season.

Next Up

Now 15–7 overall and 8–5 in conference play, Palomar will look to bounce back Friday when they travel to face Grossmont College on the road.