Griffins Finish 19-4, Defeat New Jersey’s No. 1 Team, and Set Multiple School and Shore Conference Records

TOMS RIVER, NJ – The Donovan Catholic Girls Varsity Volleyball team has put together one of the most remarkable seasons in program history, finishing the 2026 regular season with an impressive 19-4 record and earning a No. 13 ranking in New Jersey.

With the NJSIAA State Tournament approaching, the Griffins have established themselves as one of the state's top volleyball programs through historic victories, individual milestones, and a tremendous display of resilience and determination.

In his 11th season with the program, the Griffins' head coach describes this year's squad as the most resilient team he has coached.

A Season of Historic Firsts

The 2026 Griffins have accomplished several milestones never before achieved in Donovan Catholic volleyball history.

For the first time, Donovan Catholic defeated every Shore Conference team ranked among the area's top eight. The Griffins also recorded their first-ever victory over the No. 1-ranked team in New Jersey, demonstrating their ability to compete with the state's elite programs.

These accomplishments have helped propel Donovan Catholic to No. 13 in the statewide rankings heading into postseason competition.

Record-Breaking Individual Performances

Several Griffin student-athletes have delivered exceptional performances this season, rewriting the Donovan Catholic and Shore Conference record books.

Senior Emaleigh Alborn has cemented her legacy as one of the most accomplished volleyball players in school history. Alborn now holds three Donovan Catholic records:

Most career kills
Most kills in a single season
Most career blocks

Alborn currently ranks No. 6 in New Jersey in kills and has committed to continue her academic and athletic career at NCAA Division II Kutztown University.

Junior Valerie Astralaga has established a new Shore Conference record for the most digs in a single season, an extraordinary accomplishment that highlights her defensive excellence. Astralaga currently ranks No. 2 in New Jersey in digs.

Freshman Jamiah Astrel has made an immediate impact in her first varsity season, setting Donovan Catholic's single-season blocks record. Astrel currently ranks No. 8 in New Jersey in blocks, an impressive achievement for a freshman competing at the varsity level.

Freshman Kate Farrell has also emerged as one of the state's most promising young players, currently ranking No. 4 in New Jersey in kills among freshmen.

Three Griffins Earn All-A South Honors

Donovan Catholic's outstanding regular season was further recognized with three players earning All-A South Division honors:

Emaleigh Alborn
Valerie Astralaga
Brooke George

These selections reflect the team's talent, consistency, and competitive success throughout the season.

A Complete Team Effort

While individual records and historic victories have highlighted the season, the Griffins' success has been built on the contributions, commitment, and determination of the entire roster.

2026 Donovan Catholic Girls Varsity Volleyball Roster

Selina Gengaro, Brie Kiel, Bella Grzelak, Caitlyn McBride, Emaleigh Alborn, Brooke George, Kate Farrell, Mady Ayres, Valerie Astralaga, Maddie Terzian, Catherine Dunn, Jamiah Astrel, Izzy Davis, and Sky Robinson.

Together, these student-athletes have helped elevate the Donovan Catholic volleyball program to new heights while representing the school with pride.

Griffins Set Their Sights on the State Tournament

With a 19-4 regular-season record, a statewide ranking, and multiple school records already secured, the Griffins now turn their attention to the upcoming NJSIAA State Tournament.

The team's remarkable combination of experienced senior leadership, emerging young talent, and resilience has positioned Donovan Catholic for an exciting postseason run.

Regardless of what lies ahead, the 2026 Girls Volleyball team has already secured its place in Donovan Catholic Athletics history.

Congratulations to the entire Donovan Catholic Girls Volleyball team and coaching staff on an outstanding regular season. Best of luck in the state tournament!

GO GRIFFINS!