The top-seeded Southern Lehigh boys volleyball team left no doubt about who ruled District XI Class AA on Wednesday night.
Behind a balanced offensive attack and dominant play at the net, Southern Lehigh defeated second-seeded Notre Dame Green Pond in straight sets, 3-0 (25-23, 25-11, 25-21), in the District XI AA championship match at Catasauqua.
The Spartans (15-5) weathered a tight opening set before taking complete control in the second and closing out the championship in the third to secure district gold.
Southern Lehigh setter Tyler Dittus orchestrated the offense throughout the night, piling up 27 assists while adding eight digs, one block and two aces. His distribution helped keep Notre Dame’s defense guessing as multiple Spartans contributed offensively.
Nate Bukta led the Southern Lehigh attack with 11 kills and chipped in six digs, while Henry Parrish added eight kills and one block. Jeremy Hoch also delivered a strong performance with seven kills, four digs and two aces.
Mason Williams contributed six kills and two digs, while Zach Roman added five kills, three digs and an assist. Defensively, Chase Benner anchored the back row with a team-high 12 digs and added two assists. Cavan King-Vlass added three digs in the championship effort.
After edging Notre Dame Green Pond in a competitive first set, Southern Lehigh turned momentum into dominance in the second, cruising to a 25-11 victory. The Spartans finished the sweep by holding off the Crusaders in the third set to bring home the District XI AA title.
Southern Lehigh now turns its attention to the state tournament. The Spartans will face District I champion Dock Academy on Thursday, May 28 at 6 p.m. at Dock Academy in a PIAA Sub-Regional matchup.
