Sartans Dominate Class 4A Volleyball: Back-to-Back State Champions
The St. Pius X Sartans volleyball team cemented their legacy as a powerhouse, capping off a dominant 24-3 season by clinching the Class 4A New Mexico high school volleyball state championship for the second straight year. The Sartans showcased their depth, resilience, and skill, dropping only one set throughout the playoffs, a 3-1 victory over Hope Christian in the quarterfinals.
The state tournament journey began with a commanding 3-0 victory over Valley, followed by a 3-1 triumph over Hope Christian. The Sartans continued their impressive run, sweeping Silver 3-0 in the semifinals and overpowering Artesia in the championship match with another 3-0 win.
St. Pius X Rolls Over Grants to Secure Semifinal Spot
The St. Pius X Sartans delivered a dominant performance in the Class 4A New Mexico high school football quarterfinals, defeating the Grants Pirates 46-14. Fueled by an explosive offense and a relentless defense, the Sartans advanced to the semifinals, where they will host the Española Valley Sundevils on Saturday, November 23rd, at 1 p.m. at Community Stadium in Albuquerque.
Football Throttles Grants in the Quarterfinals
The Sartans set the tone early when sophomore quarterback Isaiah Carpenter connected with sophomore receiver Cayl Cox-Liggins on a 50-yard touchdown pass to open the scoring. While Grants answered immediately with a kickoff return for a touchdown to tie the game at 7-7, St. Pius X wasted no time reclaiming control. Carpenter found the end zone on another scoring drive, putting the Sartans ahead 14-7—a lead they would never relinquish.
By halftime, St. Pius X had built a commanding 43-14 advantage. Carpenter was sensational, throwing for 254 yards and three touchdowns, while also adding a rushing score. Sophomore running back Hershul Olloway Jr. was equally impressive, racking up 135 rushing yards and two touchdowns, highlighted by a 51-yard sprint.
The receiving corps came up big, with senior Bryan Thomas hauling in 84 yards and a touchdown, and Cox-Liggins contributing 123 yards and a score. Sophomore Curtis Flakes III added a touchdown reception and made significant defensive plays, recording both an interception and a fumble recovery.
Next Stop: Semifinals
With this decisive victory, St. Pius X moves to the semifinal round, where they will face the 6-seed Española Valley Sundevils. The 2-seed Sartans will look to carry their momentum forward as they chase a spot in the state championship game.
Sartan Cross Country All-Stars
Liam and Brooke Kelly represented St. Pius X at the New Mexico High School Coaches Association All-Star meet, both earning impressive 4th-place finishes in their respective races. Joshua Robbins also delivered a strong performance, finishing in 9th place. Additionally, Liam Brown and Silas Brown showcased their talent in the Top 50 Underclassmen All-Star run.
