Women’s Volleyball: Rio Hondo moves to No. 21 in state rankings after upsets; Wada named State Player of the Week

The Rio Hondo College women's volleyball team was recognized for its big week on the court.

After knocking off a pair of No. 10-ranked opponents, the Roadrunners cracked the top-25 state rankings for the first time this season, checking in at No. 21 in this week's California Community College Women's Volleyball Coaches Association (CCCWVCA) state poll.

Rio Hondo took down then No. 10-ranked Pasadena City College 3-1 (25-22, 19-25, 25-17, 25-23) on Oct. 14 and followed that with a marathon five-set upset of new No. 10 Mt. San Antonio College (25-23, 17-25, 17-25, 25-18, 15-9) on Oct. 19.

Rio Hondo head coach Teddi Esko is extremely proud of how her team has progressed this season.

"The Rio 2022 squad continues to amaze me," said Esko. "Their drive to succeed is strong. They have set goals for this season and are focused on achieving them. Our captains Nadine Oronoz and Jennifer Martinez are doing a great job leading the way with their positive energy and enthusiasm for the game. I'm looking forward to seeing this team continue to thrive."

Sophomore Faith Wada (pictured below), a key contributor to both victories and to the success of the Roadrunners this season, was also named the State Player of the Week by the CCCWVCA. Wada, a versatile sophomore setter, is originally out of Temple City High School.

From the CCCWVCA: "Wada helped Rio Hondo record its second major upset in a span of six days with her play in a 5-set victory over then state #10-ranked Mt. San Antonio. Wada set 22 assists, made 18 digs, served 5 aces and added two kills. She also was a key cog in the Roadrunners 4-set upset over also then #10-rated Pasadena City when she set 21 assists and made 16 digs. A versatile player, Wada has led RHC to six wins in its last seven matches."

"Faith has led the charge for our team's success," said Esko. "I'm very proud of her game play and leadership. Her dedication over the last two years at Rio is now paying off. She is surrounded by a great team, that pushes her to play her best for Rio Hondo."

The two victories improved Rio Hondo to 5-2 in the South Coast Conference and a tie for second place in the conference standings. The Roadrunners have won eight of its last 10 matches and are 8-5 overall.

"Needless to say, I'm extremely proud of my team's growth this season," Esko said. "We understand a season is a journey and do a great job taking each day in stride to grow just one percent better than the day before. We stand behind our team motto, 'BE BETTER!'"

Rio Hondo returns to action on Wednesday (Oct. 26) to host College of the Desert in a 5 p.m. non-conference match.