Rustlers Finish Perfect in OEC Play with 4-1 Win Over Orange Coast

HUNTINGTON BEACH, Calif. - The Golden West College beach volleyball team capped off a historic Orange Empire Conference (OEC) season with a 4-1 victory over Orange Coast College on Friday at the GWC Beach Courts, completing an undefeated run through conference play.

Already crowned OEC champions the previous week, the Rustlers closed out the regular season in dominant fashion, showcasing their depth and resilience against a strong Pirates squad.

Golden West set the tone early at the top of the lineup. The No. 1 pair of Maren Matthews and Megan Freck battled through a three-set match to defeat Kayla Ihrig and Sophie Vienna, 21-11, 19-21, 15-10.

At No. 2, Jenna Zaffino and Mackenzie Dorney delivered another clutch performance, rallying after dropping the opening set to secure a hard-fought 18-21, 23-21, 15-11 victory over Nika Safari and Brynn Bisher.

Orange Coast picked up its lone point at the No. 3 position, where Costa/Miller fell in straight sets.

The Rustlers responded with a key win at No. 4 as Cassandra Zoellers and Sorelle Buley outlasted Joey Payan and Keely Bourcy in a tightly contested match, 21-11, 26-24, 15-11, helping secure the team victory.

Golden West closed out the dual at No. 5, where Emalee Alton and Annalee Smith controlled the match from start to finish, earning a decisive 21-9, 21-7 win.

With the 4-1 result, Golden West completes conference play undefeated, an impressive accomplishment that highlights the program's consistency, depth, and championship-level performance throughout the season.

The Rustlers now turn their focus to the OEC Pairs Championships next week hosted by Irvine Valley College on Wednesday, April 22nd and Friday, April 24th with a 10am start time for both days.