Glorious Gold: Girls Volleyball Finals
A packed crowd filled with different colors and flags filled up the volleyball courts this afternoon for the girls Gold Medal Match. The final saw the perfect Marin, USA (4-0) team square off against the Mislinja, Slovenia (3-1) squad who dropped one game in the opening rounds.
After some brief warmups, stretches and time to calm the nerves, the girls lined up and welcomed the crowd before getting down to business. The stakes couldn’t be higher with the title of global supremacy on the line.
The girls from Marin entered the finals with an impressive 4-0 record, breezing past all challenges on the road to the finals. With forceful momentum, plenty of heart and a strong local crowd (Marin is located just north of San Francisco), everything was set for a glorious ride into the sunset.
Standing in the way were the girl’s from Mislinja who didn’t travel 6,100 miles for second place. Despite dropping a first round matchup to the Gradz, Poland team, the girls looked in great form and seemed poised to win.
The atmosphere was boosting with energy yet equally tense, as both teams wanted to capture the top spot. From the first serve to the last smash, the game was filled with exciting plays, hard-nosed dives and screaming celebrations.
When all the smoke had cleared, the Slovenian’s emerged victorious in straight sets (25-22, 25-20). Nothing could stand between the girls from Mislinja and their elusive title.
Don't think that the road to glory was an easy one, as the Americans put up a tough fight. At the end of the day, the girls from Marin gave their best effort and left everything on the court, but were unable to come out on top.
After clinching the title on championship point, a rush of elation swept through the Slovenian girls who were destined for gold.
“We are all so happy to win,” said Dianna, who played a crucial role in the victory. The 14 year old Slovenian was ecstatic with the result. “We all wished to win very badly. Traveling on the plane here, I always thought about winning, it is great this happened.”
It isn’t as easy as it looks. “Before the game, I was nervous. This is the finals and you think about the chance to win the tournament,” she said. Dianna might have to check an extra bag of luggage on the plane ride home, one that carries her International Children’s Games Gold Medal!
“I am so happy to have a medal. I’m also very proud to represent my city and country. I will be bringing the medal home to show all of my family and friends.”
In the true spirit of the International Children’s Games, girls from both teams shook hands and congratulated each other after the match. The two teams lined up together for a priceless photograph which was filled with smiles and hugs. The winners were gracious, the finalists proud and the crowd entertained. It was just another day at the 42nd International Children’s Games.