SACRAMENTO, Calif. – Freshman Sophia Garza and sophomore Justine Pulmones were promoted from the junior varsity team for the playoffs, Head Coach Alynn Wright announced.

"I was really nervous at first," said Garza. "But as we got into the practice, they took me under their arms as a sister and I realized this will be great experience for years to come. I am part of a new family and we are working together as a new team."

They helped lead the junior varsity team under the direction of alumna Taryn Wright Campbell '06 to a 32-1 record this season.

"Both girls were a huge part of our success, but they wouldn't be where they are without their teammates this year and their hard work," said Wright-Campebll. " know they will continue to do great things."

Garza is a freshman middle blocker from Rancho Murieta, who attended St. John Notre Dame.

"Sophia had a great year especially the second half of the season," said Wright-Campbell. "Once she got comfortable with the speed of JV and she started to connect with our setters, she became one of the top middles on JV in the area. She is a hard worker and a great teammate. I am very excited for her move up to Varsity and I can't wait to see her continue to grow."

Pulmones is a sophomore defensive specialist and libero from Folsom. She also played at St. John Notre Dame.

"Justine had a great year leading our serve receive and defense," said Wright-Campbell. "She was a great team captain and her leadership in the backrow helped our team in every match. Her hard work and determination has helped her reach her goal of moving up to Varsity. I am very proud of her and can't wait to continue to watch her grow as a person and player."

They joined the team this week for practice and will be in uniform for the start of playoffs next Tuesday.