September 30 2026

Written by Brad Peters

RIVERSIDE:  On Senior Night for girls Volleyball, King witnessed something special … actually several special things.

First, a parade of their players who are a part of the Class of ’27 were feted on the court along with friends, family and teachers.  It’s an annual tradition of celebrating the graduating class that is always done with class and distinction.

Given that one of those Seniors is Brooklyn Nielsen, head coach Michael Tongg handed the reigns of the coaching responsibilities for the evening to his assistant coach who happens also to be Brooklyn’s mother.

“I was blessed to have Coach Shannon Nielsen take the lead coach role in tonight’s Senior night match, and not just coach but as a parent of a senior,” Tongg said after the match.  “Shannon did an excellent job and lead us to a win against Corona.”

It was a special touch on the victory.  The final score ended in King’s favor, 3-1 (25-17, 25-18, 14-25, 25-22)

Throughout the event, the Den was electric.   Nielsen put together an “all-senior” starting lineup and the Ladywolves came ready to play.

“They did not disappoint,” said Nielsen.

King dominated through the first two sets, exhibiting great team play, with every player contributing and keeping the momentum for the home team.   Corona adjusted and attacked in the third set to avoid the sweep, but King took notes of their own and came back with adjustments in the final set to secure the victory.  “We had some smart offensive plays in that final set,” Nielsen said, which foiled Corona’s plans for an upset

Senior Caitlin Kiemele led the team with 10 kills and 2 blocks and Brooklyn Nielsen had 6 aces and 15 digs.

But it was the play of Senior Brielle Thompson that put a bow on the night.

The senior had 4 aces, 14 assists and 12 digs.  Those 4 aces put her past the school record of 60 set 12 years ago by Jaden Grova.  Thompson now has 63 with more matches to play on the season.

“When we come together as one and bring the energy our team is as good as any team in our league,” said Coach Nielsen.  Her daughter Brooklyn  emphasized “that energy is very important.”

“We can win if we set our minds to it” said Senior Sofia Galvan.  Junior Leina Cadena added “that continuing to play for each other,” will take the team far.

A pretty special night for the Wolves.

King’s league record to date is now at 2-4 and 18-6 overall.