Westwood Outlasts Norwood in Electric Four-Set Battle

September 5, 2025
 
The Westwood Girls Volleyball team proved its toughness on Thursday night, battling through momentum swings to earn a hard-fought 3–1 victory over cross-town rival Norwood at Bader Gymnasium. The win improves the Wolverines to 2–0 overall and 2–0 in the TVL Large, a strong start for a team with a new cast of contributors.
 
Despite returning just one starter from last year’s senior-heavy squad, senior captain Livy Leyden, this group wasted no time showing it can compete at a high level. Leyden and Veronica Reeves were dominant forces at the net, combining for key blocks that shifted momentum early and kills that electrified the home crowd. Their presence gave Westwood stability and energy when the match tightened.
 
Senior Captain Tav Lodovico was equally impactful, both at the service line and as the team’s steady setter. Her left-handed spin serve consistently disrupted Norwood’s rhythm, and her accurate sets allowed Westwood’s hitters to capitalize in big moments.
 
The underclassmen shined as well. Sophomores Narintra Kamolratanapiboon and Lulu Fenton showcased their power with laser kills and cross-court finishes, while also providing strong defensive coverage across the floor. Junior Opposite Hitter Avery Herlihy came up clutch, sparking rallies with timely serving runs that helped Westwood erase deficits and build momentum.
 
Anchoring the defense was Senior Libero Anna Beaumont, whose clean and consistent digs kept rallies alive and fueled transition opportunities. Her steady play was critical to Westwood’s ability to close out sets under pressure.
 
In a match defined by resilience, the Wolverines showed composure and grit, answering every Norwood push with a run of their own. The final scores reflected the back-and-forth nature of the contest: 25–12 Westwood, 18–25 Norwood, 25–21 Westwood, and 25–22 Westwood.
 
Head Coach JC Whalen praised her team’s balance and competitive spirit, noting the confidence and execution from a roster blending senior leadership with emerging young talent.
 
Next up, Westwood will hit the road for a non-league matchup against Coach Whalen’s alma mater, Boston Latin, on Monday, September 8 at 4:30 p.m.