Red & Black Battle Defending Champs in Four-Set Playoff Thriller

Author: Tommy Kowalczuk, WHS Class of '26

In one of their toughest matchups of the season, the Winchester girls volleyball team faced off against Newton North, the reigning two-time state champions, in an intense playoff showdown. Despite falling 3–1, the Red & Black left everything on the court, showing determination, skill, and heart from start to finish.

The match opened with Winchester setting the tone early. The Red & Black came out energized, matching Newton North point for point in a tightly contested first set. Behind strong serving and quick transitions, Winchester built a narrow lead and found themselves up 24–23, just one point away from taking the set. However, Newton North managed to string together a clutch run, narrowly stealing the opener.

The second set followed a similar pattern, as Winchester’s defense and serve receive held strong against Newton North’s heavy hitters. Hazel Lovins and Johanna Melhorn were key forces at the net, delivering strong kills and timely blocks to keep the team in it. Setter Julia Campo kept the offense moving efficiently, finding open hitters and distributing the ball with precision. Though Winchester kept it close throughout, Newton North pulled ahead in the final moments to go up 2–0.

Refusing to back down, the Red & Black came roaring back in the third set. Momentum swung Winchester’s way after a series of strong serves and aggressive play at the net. Lovins and Melhorn continued to shine, and consistent passing from the back row helped the offense find its rhythm. Winchester controlled the pace from start to finish, taking the set and bringing the crowd to life as they looked to force a fifth.

In the fourth, Newton North jumped out to an early five-point lead, but Winchester showed the resilience that has defined their season. Led by Campo’s leadership and the team’s energy on the court, the Red & Black fought back to close the gap, keeping the score tight deep into the set. Despite the rally, Newton North’s experience and consistency helped them close out the match, taking the final set 25–21.

Even in defeat, Winchester proved they can go toe-to-toe with the best. Newton North may continue its run toward another title, but the Red & Black’s performance was a statement of its own — that this team is among the strongest and most promising in Massachusetts high school volleyball.