Legacy Battles St. Edward’s in Five-Set Volleyball Thriller

Legacy Battles St. Edward’s in Five-Set Volleyball Thriller

By Desirae DeRice | Rangeman Films Student Media Reporter

October 6, 2026 | Vero Beach, Florida

Legacy High School’s girls volleyball team left everything on the court Tuesday night, battling St. Edward’s through five competitive sets before falling 3–2 in a match where every set was decided by just two points.

The Lions showed determination, strong defensive play, and offensive firepower throughout the contest, but the Pirates secured the victory with a 16–14 win in the deciding fifth set.

Five Sets of Back-and-Forth Action

St. Edward’s opened the match with a narrow 26–24 victory in the first set, but Legacy responded with consecutive wins in the second and third sets, 27–25 and 25–23.

With momentum shifting in Legacy’s favor, St. Edward’s fought back in the fourth set, winning 27–25 to force a deciding fifth.

The final set was another intense battle, with both teams fighting for every point. St. Edward’s eventually prevailed 16–14 to complete the five-set victory.

Junior Lyla Barker-Bray (#10) helped lead Legacy’s offensive attack, finishing with 15 kills and 19 digs.

Senior setter Meredith Prince (#11) delivered an impressive all-around performance, recording 52 assists, 19 digs, and six kills.

Taylor Smith contributed 11 kills and 27 digs, while S. Spychalla led Legacy with 17 kills.

Meredith Prince Talks Leadership and Determination

Following the match, Rangeman Films student reporter Desirae DeRice caught up with Prince to discuss the team’s performance and the emotions surrounding her final high school volleyball season.

Prince explained that the team began finding its rhythm as the match progressed.

“There was a moment when there was clarity between both sides of our game, our offense and our defense, and we all just connected,” Prince said.

She believed Legacy had the ability to compete for the victory if the players continued communicating and maintaining positive energy.

When asked what she was most proud of this season, Prince didn’t hesitate.

“I would say our fight. I think we have really good fight. It’s rare that I see us give up.”

That determination was evident throughout the evening as Legacy battled through five closely contested sets.

More Than Just Another Game

For Prince, every remaining match carries additional meaning as her senior season approaches its conclusion.

“Knowing that we’re coming toward the end of our season, every game matters,” she explained.

Prince acknowledged that she may not continue playing volleyball in college, making these final opportunities alongside her teammates even more meaningful.

She hopes to finish her high school career by giving everything she has and setting a positive example for the younger players.

Prince also discussed developing her offensive abilities as a setter, particularly reading opposing blockers and recognizing openings in the defense.

“I want to be an option. I want to be a competitive player,” she said.

Looking Ahead

Although Legacy came up short on the scoreboard, the Lions demonstrated their ability to compete in pressure situations against a talented St. Edward’s squad.

With strong performances from Barker-Bray, Prince, Smith, and their teammates, Legacy showed the offensive versatility and determination needed to compete in closely contested matches.

For Prince and the rest of the Lions, the focus remains on finishing the season strong and making every opportunity count.

Reporting and player interview by Desirae DeRice

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