San Diego, December 14, 2025

The San Diego State Aztecs volleyball team secured their spot in the Mountain West Championship by defeating Fresno State 3-0. This victory at Aztec Court highlighted local talent and emphasized the importance of community support for athletic programs. Key players like Sarena Gonzalez and Madison Corf excelled, signaling a turnaround in the Aztecs’ season as they move forward to face Wyoming in Las Vegas.

San Diego Aztecs Clinch Mountain West Championship Spot

The Aztecs secure a decisive win over Fresno State, highlighting local talent and resilience

San Diego, CA – In an impressive display of skill and determination, the San Diego State Aztecs volleyball team secured their place in the Mountain West Championship by defeating the Fresno State Bulldogs 3-0 on Saturday, December 13, 2025. This commanding win at Aztec Court in Peterson Gym showcased the talents of local athletes and underscored the importance of fostering athletic programs that inspire community support and pride.

In a competitive region known for its thriving sports culture, the Aztecs’ recent victory reflects not only their resilience but also the potential for further growth in student-athlete recruitment and training programs in San Diego County. This triumph could pave the way for future investments in local sports initiatives, supporting both athletes and small businesses that thrive around collegiate events.

Key Performances

• Sarena Gonzalez, a senior setter from Temecula Valley High School, led the Aztecs with a season-high 26 assists and eight digs.
• Madison Corf excelled with 14 kills and a hitting percentage of .478, showcasing her offensive prowess. Ella Schabort contributed significantly with 10 kills, while Talea Mitchell shone with seven kills at an impressive .700 hitting percentage.
• Campbell Hague played a critical role, serving three consecutive aces in the second set, which helped the Aztecs close the match decisively.
• From Fresno State, Madison Pulsipher recorded four kills but was unable to shift the momentum in favor of her team.

Match Highlights

• The Aztecs began the match with authority, taking an early 12-5 lead in the opening set and finishing strong at 25-13.
• In a closely contested second set, Fresno State initially led 18-14, but the Aztecs surged back, driven by Hague’s key service aces, to win 25-21.
• The final set saw the Aztecs maintaining a remarkable .514 hitting efficiency, a testament to their offensive strategy orchestrated by Gonzalez, and they closed the match decisively with a final kill.

Season Context

• This victory marks the end of a four-match losing streak for San Diego State, revitalizing their season and providing momentum heading into the championship.
• Prior to the match, the team honored its senior class, celebrating the contributions of key players alongside a strengthened community spirit.
• With this win, the Aztecs (14-15, 9-9 MW) look ahead to the Mountain West Championship in Las Vegas, where they will face No. 3 seed Wyoming on November 26.

Supporting Local Enterprises

Events like these not only highlight the athletic accomplishments of young talent but also serve as a catalyst for economic growth within the community. The engagement of local businesses through sponsorships and the patronage by fans at games can foster a beneficial cycle of support that strengthens San Diego’s economy. As the Aztecs advance in the championship, it can inspire further investment in recreational facilities and sporting events, presenting opportunities for California entrepreneurs and small business owners to thrive.

Conclusion

The San Diego State Aztecs’ victory over Fresno State is a testament to the power of local talent and the enduring spirit of resilience. As they prepare for the upcoming Mountain West Championship, the community is encouraged to rally behind the team, not only to support their journey but also to celebrate the entrepreneurial spirit that thrives at events like this. Supporting local businesses and sports initiatives is vital for maintaining the momentum of San Diego’s economic and cultural vibrancy.