SAN DIEGO — The San Diego Mojo swept the Columbus Fury in their last home game of the season. While the Mojo clinched a playoff berth last week, they are still looking to solidify their spot in the standings. Thursday’s matchup was their first home sweep of the season, 25-19, 25-22, 30-28, but was an emotional moment for everyone in the arena.
“I think bittersweet is the best way I can describe it,” said head coach Alisha Childress. “Knowing that this is the last time we’ll play in this arena with this specific group. I think that’s really challenging.”
Almost 4500 Mojo fans packed Viejas Arena for the final time to say goodbye to the Mojo. The team recently announced that Thursday would be the Mojo’s final game in San Diego as the league is looking in another direction.
Despite the emotions in the arena, San Diego was locked in from the start. The Mojo defense carried them through the first set with four blocks and 19 digs. San Diego finished with a 25-19 first-set victory.
Libero Shara Venegas has been with the Mojo since the team’s inception three years ago. Natalie Tullar/@nstphotography_
The second set was a different story. Throughout the set, neither team led by more three points but outside hitter Grace Loberg scored the Mojo’s final two points to seal the second set win, 25-22.
After the break, the San Diego resumed their dominant ways. The Mojo looked like they were pulling away with the victory at 22-17, but Columbus came storming back. The Fury had three set-point chances but the Mojo overcame them all. The Mojo then had three set points of their own, finally converting at 30-28.
While Thursday’s victory marked the end of an era for the Mojo, the team expressed pride for all they have accomplished. San Diego has one more regular season game (away) before heading to Texas for the MLV Championship tournament.
“We’re not done yet,” Loberg said.
Taylor Sandbothe and Jovana Brakočević with the block. Natalie Tullar/@nstphotography_
Next Up
On May 3, the San Diego Mojo will play their final regular season game against the Indy Ignite at Fishers Event Center at noon PT. The game will stream on Scripps Sports Network.
