The Mars girls’ volleyball team closed out an impressive 2025 season with a deep postseason run, finishing 13–4 in the regular season, undefeated in section play with an 8-1 record, earning third place in WPIAL Class 3A, and advancing to the PIAA State Quarterfinals.
A Strong Season, A Tight-Knit Team
Mars played with composure, energy, and growing confidence throughout the season—qualities that outside hitter Rylee Wooldridge said defined the team’s identity.
“This season was really fun,” Wooldridge said. “We played really well together, and it was nice to have new faces on the court.”
One of the team’s signature moments came in a thrilling reverse sweep over Seneca Valley.
“Seneca Valley won the first two sets and we won the next three,” Wooldridge said. “That was definitely a highlight.”
Mars graduated four seniors this fall, but the future remains bright with returning talent and a strong group of younger players developing in the wings.
WPIAL Playoff Run
First Round: Mars Defeats Belle Vernon, 3–1
The No. 3–seed Fightin’ Planets opened the postseason with a convincing home win over No. 14 Belle Vernon.
Set scores: 25–10, 20–25, 25–20, 25–19.
Five-Set Classic: Mars Outlasts Greensburg Salem
Mars followed with one of the most dramatic wins of the year—an emotional five-set comeback over Greensburg Salem. The Planets dropped the second and third sets but stormed back behind huge performances from Cecilia Christy (24 kills) and Rylee Wooldridge (22 kills).
Semifinal Battle: Mars Falls to Beaver, 3–1
In the WPIAL semifinals at North Allegheny, Mars pushed Beaver but ultimately fell 3–1.
WPIAL Consolation Match: Mars Secures State Berth With 3–1 Win Over Hampton
Mars defeated Hampton 3–1 to clinch third place in 3A and advance to the PIAA tournament.
PIAA State Tournament
First Round: Mars Sweeps Warren, 3–0
Mars opened the state tournament by sweeping Warren.
Set scores: 25–17, 25–19, 25–23.
Quarterfinals: Mars Falls to Beaver
In a hard-fought rematch, Mars pushed Beaver to four sets but fell 3–1, ending their postseason run with an outstanding 18–6 overall record.
Head Coach Tami Caraway praised her team’s growth and resilience, noting the promise of the young talent rising through the program.
Looking Ahead
With strong returners, rising underclassmen, and a talented incoming freshman class, Mars volleyball is poised for another strong run next season.
“We have a lot of young players. We’re looking forward to a great freshman class coming up,” said Coach Caraway.