![The Phoenix varsity volleyball team lines up for the national anthem. “We were more communicative [with each other] during this game, and I feel like we kept our energy up, especially after the first set,” senior Jessica Valdov said.](https://theblazerrhs.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/DSC_0202-1200x800.jpg)
![Junior Alex Alkhal pitches the ball. “[I] just let it go and keep practicing so we can focus on our goal for the next game to get better as a team,” Alkhal said.](https://theblazerrhs.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/DSC_0013-1-1200x929.jpg)
On Friday, Sept. 19, the annual “Blackout Game,” which preceded the Homecoming dance, included an eventful tailgate full of games, snacks, and fanfare. Despite showing flashes on offense during the game, the Phoenix lost to the Luray Bulldogs, 14-51.
The Bulldogs pushed the game with a 14-0 start, but the Phoenix fought back, with a momentum-saving third down at the start of the second quarter that led to a 75-yard connection from freshman Nesai Phok to senior David Lassisi.
“[David Lassisi and I] finally got a connection that we’ve always wanted to work on this summer, and we finally got it in the game,” Phok said. Following Lassisi’s touchdown, sophomore kicker Eljiah Mezzacappa closed the gap, bringing the score to 7-21. The Phoenix continued their strong defense until the Bulldogs strung together nine more points before halftime, making the score 7-30.
Going into halftime trailing by 23, the Phoenix leaders leaned into their passion and camaraderie in order to finish the game. “It’s about the passion for the sport,” Lasissi said. “I don’t care about my body, the risk to my body, but I care about sacrificing my body for the team because that’s what you gotta do.” Lasissi, being a leader, played both offense and defense for his team.
During the halftime show, Rock Ridge band players played “Take Me to Church” by Hozier, with senior Grace Carper as the lead singer. The Rock Ridge Color Guard made their appearance, demonstrating flag dancing for the spectators. The homecoming court was crowned as well, with senior Phoenix volleyball captain Kenidy Nguyen selected as the winner.
Coming back from halftime, Rock Ridge returned with an intense push. Phok threw a 25-yard pass, leading to an impressive yards-after-catch touchdown run by Xavier Smith, securing a 14-30 score. In return, the Bulldogs barked back with a march down the field, concluding in a 15-yard rushing touchdown and a two-point conversion. Rock Ridge continued defending the Phoenix field, as well as attacking the Bulldogs, but Luray stood their ground until the end of the third quarter.
During the fourth quarter against the Bulldogs, the Phoenix continued to push the ball offensively while relentlessly defending. However, near the end of the game, a 20-yard screen pass by the Bulldogs led to the endzone. The final score was 14-51.
Even after this game, Coach Mark Teague still has hope for the future. “You still have an entire season left in front of you,” Teague said.“You still have six more games. You still control your own destiny.”
The Phoenix will play again against the Falls Church Jaguars on Friday, Sept. 26.
