Old Bridge Secures First Group 4 Title, Defeats Westfield 3-2
UPDATE: In a thrilling showdown, the No. 3 Old Bridge volleyball team clinched its first-ever Group 4 title by defeating No. 12 Westfield 3-2 on October 28, 2023. This victory not only marks a historic achievement for the program but also avenges their loss to Westfield in last year’s finals.
The match unfolded in dramatic fashion, with Old Bridge (32-1) battling back after a back-and-forth contest. They surged ahead with a commanding 14-6 lead in the decisive fifth set, thanks to a critical kill from Weronika Malinowski. “I might have scored the last point, but it was not all me,” Malinowski stated. “The entire team worked together… we are like family.” Her impressive performance included 15 kills, 21 digs, three aces, and two blocks.
The first set set the tone, ending with a nail-biting score of 33-31 in favor of Old Bridge, capped by a set-clinching block from Olivia Grubb. Ashley Markle played a pivotal role, contributing 29 kills, eight digs, and an ace. “We didn’t play like ourselves,” Markle reflected. “Reality kind of set in that this is the state finals.”
Westfield (24-6) showcased their resilience, led by senior Ava Gaspard, who delivered 23 kills, 20 digs, and four blocks. The team fought back, winning the second set 25-21 and forcing the match into a winner-takes-all final set after alternating victories.
Old Bridge’s Maya Luoinski was instrumental, delivering a game-high 47 assists along with 10 digs and three aces. “Maya was the player of the game,” praised head coach Andrew Hopman. “She’s amazing at turning bad passes into dream sets.”
This season, Old Bridge also celebrated winning the GMC Tournament and their third Central Jersey, Group 4 sectional title in four years. Despite the loss, Westfield remains a formidable opponent with a history of strong performances in state championships, now holding a 1-3 all-time record in finals.
As fans celebrate this landmark victory, all eyes will be on Old Bridge as they embrace their new title and look forward to defending it in future seasons. The energy and excitement surrounding this win is palpable, making it a moment to remember in New Jersey high school sports history.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story and other sports news.
