For the first time in years the Culver City High School girls’ volleyball team is struggling in the Ocean League.  Two-time defending champions, the Lady Centaurs are trying to navigate unfamiliar territory.

At 2-2 in the league and 8-7-1 overall, they hosted Beverly Hills this afternoon in the Del Goodyear Gym.

If they beat the Normans, they will tie Beverly Hills for third place behind Santa Monica and El Segundo.

“The team still is trying to figure out their identity,” said Coach Joe Manzo.  “We are in tough battles in close games and losing them. We are getting leads but we are not finishing.

“We are one step away from where we need to be.  We need to finish the first half of league play strong.”

Coach Manzo hopes to the team will regain momentum going into the second half of the Ocean League schedule when the Lady Centaurs will play the top two teams at home.  If they win both matches, they will be right back in title contention.

“We are young but we have some senior leadership,” said Manzo.  “It’s a matter of putting the pieces together, believing in each other. I have a strong feeling about this team.  They will find a way.”

Capt. Adili Tikondja, senior middle blocker, is helping the Lady Centaurs move in the right direction. “She is the spark we need right now,” said Manzo.

Mr. Finley may be contacted at sfinley50@aol.com