Volleyball:

The 90s game seemed to move a little faster. Newport’s Russ Gan showed why many feel that he is the best setter ever in our area by distributing the ball with ease to Dan Thomassen (coaching and teaching at Sage Hill School), Al Lemon, Eric Perrine (coaching at UC San Diego) and Dr. Amin Mirhadi. CdM’s setting was handled by Derek Newcomer and Evan Burden, with Dennis Alshuler and Greg Coon in the middle and Rob Alshuler and Alec Hansen hitting outside. Newport’s Ryan Tomalas and CdM’s Tom Welch both played with the 90s teams.

The 2000s match was very good. Tom Welch and Sam Stafford led CdM, while Blake Tippett, Adam Schlesinger, Loyd Wright and Eric Perrine were all good for Newport. Another highlight of the evening were the matches between the alumni and the varsity teams from CdM and Newport. Run simultaneously in both gyms, it was possible to get an idea of what each team will look like this season. While the alumni teams beat the varsity teams, it was a very valuable lesson for Newport and CdM.

The postgame party and auction were a success. The Newport Beach Tennis Club was close and quite a number of the players attended and danced to the music of the fabulous Ho Daddies. Newport’s Matt McLaren served as the master of ceremonies for the auction and was extremely successful at raising money for both programs.

A special thank you to Anne Yardley and Mary Ann Haly who were so instrumental in the organization. Dave Nielsen was outstanding in organizing the alumni teams and assisting Brent Ogden who did his usual outstanding job as the "Voice of the Sea Kings."

I would like to thank Newport assistant coach, Taylor Govaars, who created the idea for this event.

Oh, who won? Everybody that attended was treated to a memorable night (even Mike Flinn). The e-mails have already started in preparation for next year’s event which should prove to be even more exciting. Special thanks to all who donated to the cause.