Sweet Sixteen

By Michael Ashcraft --

No, she's not 18 years old. She just plays on an club volleyball team of 18-year-olds. She is only 16.

Shayla Papik, a junior at Lighthouse Christian Academy, was the talisman Tuesday against Grace School Simi Valley.

The Saints defeated the Lancers in three handy sets: 25-16, 25-17, 25-20.

When the Lancers led briefly in Game 2, it was Shayla with explosive serves that helped Lighthouse pull away.

"Shayla is a non-confrontational helper wherever she goes. She's always positive," said Coach Jessica Young. "She fights. She gives it everything. She gets nervous, but she doesn't show it. She can hit. She's a good blocker. She can play everything but we need her as a setter because she has beautiful hands. She's a leader. She keeps the dynamics good."

The Saints started strongly and finished strongly. After losing its first two (non-league) games, LCA broke the streak in its league opener. The girls jumped for joy, even falling down.

"Our team had each other's backs in this game. Some people were making mistakes but other people compensated. Everyone was receptive to our instruction."

Shayla plays for Westside volleyball and rolled her ankle at tryouts. Nonetheless, he coach placed her on the 18-year-olds team. "I was over the moon with joy," Shayla says. "I had to call all my friends. I was ecstatic."

Competing at a higher level on club translates to higher performance in high school.

About this writer: Mike Ashcraft teaches journalism at the Lighthouse Christian Academy of Santa Monica. Related content: The little assassin, Straight outta Compton, Jill-house rock.