With the volleyball CIF semi-final playoff match seemingly lost after losing the first two games, FC coach David Tatum called a time-out in the middle of the third game against Kings Christian to restore his team’s composure. Tatum asked his starters whether they were willing to fight for the remaining point to turn the match around, during their Division V home game, Nov. 10.

Junior Ashlyn White, far left, implored her teammates to dig deeper and want every point more than Kings. And, according to Tatum, the fire, determination and hunger returned to the eyes of his players. They refocused and won game three, 25-16, and battled for a 25-23 nail-biter in game four.

Then, like much of the season, the Eagles rolled to a final game win, 15-8, scoring the first 6 points and never looking back. The crowd, becoming increasingly louder, rushed the floor after game point and embraced their come-from-behind heroes.

With the 3-2 win over the Crusaders, the Eagles will travel to San Luis Obispo to take on the Royals of Mission Prep, Nov. 12. Game time is 7 p.m.

For more information on this and other games, read the Volleyball sport shorts, 2009 and watch the slideshow on each match.