The Pirate volleyball team picked up where they left off a year ago, claiming a pair of straight-set victories in the VC Kick-Off Quad at the Athletic Event Center Friday. Ventura (2-0) defeated Imperial Valley 25-16, 25-15, 25-15 and won the nightcap against Los Angeles Trade Tech 25-10, 25-9, 25-11. Brittney Mukhar and Jaimelene Salgado led the Pirate attack with 17 kills and 34 assists, respectively, while Cassandra Lacanilao posted 51 digs in the two contests.
Ventura 3, Imperial Valley 0 (25-16, 25-15, 25-15)
The Pirates jumped out to 14-6 advantages in both the first and third sets, leading to the easy three-set victory. In her first action in nearly two years following a redshirt season in 2014, Mukhar had a solid opener with nine kills, 11 digs and a pair of service aces. Paris Dosch had nine kills in the match while Mikayla Spears handed out 18 assists. Lacanilao had 17 digs and four service aces in the win.
Ventura 3, Los Angeles Trade Tech 0 (25-10, 25-9, 25-11)
Ventura trailed 2-1 early in the opening set before Lacanilao served up four consecutive winners. VC broke things open behind the serve of Kierra Joyner, rolling to an 18-5 lead. Mukhar served the final five points to take the first set, 25-10.
Ventura fell behind again in the second set, 3-1, before reeling off 10 straight points to take control, claiming the set, 25-9.
In the decisive frame, VC dominated en route to the 25-11 margin.
Armonee Hunter had 11 kills to lead VC while Mukhar contributed eight. Salgado dished up 18 assists and Lacanilao had 34 digs.
Ventura will next host Long Beach City College on Wednesday Sept. 2 at 6:00 pm.