Up two sets to none, Newton South’s girls varsity volleyball team seemed to be on cruise control in their opening round playoff matchup against Taunton on Thursday evening. But late in the third set, the Lions found themselves tied at 19 after a series of miscommunications, unforced errors, and strong defense from the visitors. It was time to lock in.

“It was really just about remembering what works,” says head coach Lucas Coffeen. “Not doing anything different. Not trying to do extra. Being confident and just playing our normal volleyball and getting back to it. And we always were able to get back to it tonight.”

South rediscovered their DNA—team play, strong setting, and aggressive hitting—and roared back to win the third set and the match. The victory earns them a date with Chelmsford in the second round.

Bella Promuto and Sofia Hellstrom were strong for the Lions, delivering punishing attacks that Taunton struggled to defend all night. Ruth Leigland was also key, orchestrating South’s offense with both sets and kills.

“[Ruth] does a lot for the team,” said Coffeen. “Her setting was so good tonight.”

The first-round win was a first step towards a larger goal. Last year, South upset higher-seeded Chelmsford and Brookline on their way to the state semifinals, where the Lions were defeated by eventual champion Franklin. It was a memorable run that the team is trying to match—or even improve on—in the coming weeks.

“Last year was wonderful,” recalled Hellstrom, a senior captain. “We’re so excited. We’re trying to be as energetic as last year. It really brought us through the season, our positivity, and I think it’s going to bring us far this season again.”

The Lions cheer ahead of a first round game against Taunton. (c) Burt Granofsky/Newton Beacon

Bella Promuto (1) elevates for the attack. (c) Burt Granofsky/Newton Beacon

Sofia Hellstrom (11) drives the ball past two Taunton defenders. (c) Burt Granofsky/Newton Beacon

Sophia Saloum (12) sets the ball in front of a raucous South bench. (c) Burt Granofsky/Newton Beacon

Maggie Ardini (16) and Bella Promuto (1) defend the net. (c) Burt Granofsky/Newton Beacon

Head Coach Lucas Coffeen flexes after the Lions scored a point in the second set. (c) Burt Granofsky/Newton Beacon

South players mob Ruth Leigland (5) after a point in the third set. (c) Burt Granofsky/Newton Beacon

Sophia Saloum (12) gets ready to serve the ball. (c) Burt Granofsky/Newton Beacon

The Newton South varsity volleyball team defeated Taunton 3-0 in the first round of the MIAA Division 1 tournament at Newton South HS on November 5, 2026. (c) Burt Granofsky/Newton Beacon