Old Tappan Sweeps Ridgewood to Stay Perfect

Photo Credits: Timmy Chun

Old Tappan kept its undefeated start alive with a straight-sets win over Ridgewood on Monday night, taking the match 25-20, 25-23.

Senior hitter Julia Whaley powered the Golden Knights with 11 kills, 10 digs, and two aces, while setter Joley Giordano paced the offense with 18 assists and six digs. Libero Desi Malafis anchored the defense with 20 digs, and middle Gabriela Paltag chipped in four kills and four blocks at the net.

Ridgewood pushed back in the second set behind seven kills from Mia Luther and six from Jolie Wolcott, but Old Tappan closed strong to finish the sweep. Setter Parker Langheim added 16 assists for the Maroons, who fell to 0-2.

The victory moved Old Tappan to 2-0 on the season, continuing its strong early run in league play.

Here’s a full recap of Old Tappan vs Ridgewood on Monday, September 8, 2025:

Final Score

Old Tappan 2, Ridgewood 0
- Set 1: Old Tappan 25, Ridgewood 20
- Set 2: Old Tappan 25, Ridgewood 23

Old Tappan stays perfect at 2-0.

Match Highlights

Old Tappan controlled the match early, taking the first set 25-20.
Ridgewood fought hard in the second set, keeping it tight to 25-23, but Old Tappan closed strong to sweep.
Serving was key for Old Tappan, finishing with 5 aces compared to Ridgewood’s 2.
Old Tappan’s defense and setting balance made the difference, with 41 digs and 22 assists.

Old Tappan Standouts

Julia Whaley: Team-high 11 kills, plus 10 digs and 2 aces.
Joley Giordano: Steady play with 18 assists, 6 digs, and an ace running the offense.
Desi Malafis: Anchored the defense with 20 digs.
Gabriela Paltag: Strong at the net with 4 kills and 4 blocks.
Nadine Whaley: Added 4 kills and a block.

Ridgewood Leaders

Mia Luther: Team-best 7 kills, 9 digs, and a block.
Jolie Wolcott: Contributed 6 kills and a block.
Saige Rogers: Solid all-around with 12 digs, 2 kills, and an assist.
Parker Langheim: Ran the offense with 16 assists and added 5 digs.

Takeaway

Old Tappan’s depth and ability to close out tight sets kept their unbeaten streak alive. Ridgewood showed resilience in set two but couldn’t match Old Tappan’s defensive coverage and clutch hitting.

Source Link: https://highschoolsports.nj.com/game/1054728

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