3A state: Maggie Roe leads Boulder City to first state title in 28 years

Jim Cox ran up and down the sidelines of the Faith Lutheran gymnasium for almost two hours Saturday, waving a giant flag emblazoned with Boulder City’s school colors.

Why?

To bring “energy” to the girls volleyball team seeking its first state title since 1989.

“Energy is everything,” he said. “Without energy and enthusiasm, what can you accomplish?”

Cox attended for his daughter, junior outside hitter Setia Cox, and was joined by what felt like the rest of the town of 14,687. And collectively, they brought enough energy to spark the Eagles to a 17-25, 27-25, 14-25, 25-16, 15-12 victory over Moapa Valley in the Class 3A state final at Faith Lutheran.

“They did feed off our crowd,” Boulder City coach Cherise Hinman said. “They’re proud we had so much community support. It means a lot to these parents (and) grandparents who went to Boulder City High School. It’s a community win.”

Indeed — a win for current students, alumni and their families.

“It’s huge, especially with the group we have,” Hinman said. “Mostly freshman, so it’s unbelievable we were able to pull it together and beat such a talented group like Moapa. They’re a solid team, and we respect them greatly.”

Senior Maggie Roe, who has signed with Division-II Western New Mexico, had 27 kills, 11 assists, seven digs and four blocks to lead Boulder City (28-15-3). She put down one of her kills for match point to send the Eagles’ crowd into a frenzy.

One coach, and mother, was elated to see her daughter go out on top.

“The accumulation of coaching her for so many years and then to go out with a state championship — it’s just a dream,” said Hinman, fighting back tears.

Shelbi Walker had 18 kills, Eden Whitmore had 17 kills, and Aria Messer dished out 31 assists to go along with four aces for Moapa Valley (29-12).

“This is a group of girls that has my heart,” Moapa Valley coach Mandie Matheson said. “Kids I’ve coached for a long time. We wanted this for them. They’re incredible kids. Hard workers, determined, undersized and they pushed the limits all year long. I’m super proud of them.”

Contact reporter Sam Gordon at sgordon@reviewjournal.com. Follow @BySamGordon on Twitter.