PRESS RELEASE – After a challenging start, Legacy Volleyball Club’s 17U team rallied to finish undefeated in the Bronze Bracket of the 17USA division at the 2025 Southern Exposure tournament, hosted by A5 Volleyball Club in Atlanta, Georgia on May 30 and June 1, 2025.
The two-day event featured 198 teams across 11 divisions. Legacy’s 17s competed in the 17USA division, where a sudden injury to starting libero Maddie Lobaton on Day 1 left the team reeling. After dropping all three matches in pool play, the team regrouped and entered Day 2 determined to turn things around.
“Next man up — that’s the mindset we talked about,” said team coach Dave Rillera. “The girls trusted the system, trusted each other, and stepped up when it mattered most.”
The three losses dropped the team to the Bronze Bracket but Legacy was able to bounce back and show their grit. In the semifinal, Legacy faced Insanity Volleyball Club’s 17-1 team, the top 17s squad from the Athens, Tennessee club. After a heartbreaking 29-27 loss in the opening set, Legacy responded with composure and fire. Kylie Rae Paulino, who had been training as an outside hitter, filled in as libero and anchored the back row with poise. Team captain Keivi Susuico led the offensive charge, while middle blockers Zariah Besabe and Ella Fejeran delivered timely kills and big blocks to swing momentum. The team stormed back to win the next two sets 25-19 and 15-12, advancing to the final.
Legacy then faced TUVA G17 Select, a high-caliber team from North Carolina’s Triad United Volleyball Academy. In their strongest showing of the tournament, Legacy dominated from start to finish. Setters Arey Garrido and Breana Simina ran a concise, balanced offense, spreading the ball with confidence and efficiency. Ria Chargualaf and Jasmin Green played vital roles in serve receive and defense, keeping TUVA on their heels. With Fejeran and Besabe patrolling the net Kimora Charfauros provided the spark the team needed as she helped Legacy stay steady in the backcourt, Legacy closed out the final in straight sets, 25-21, 25-15.
Legacy’s two-match sweep showcased the team’s resilience, growth, and unity. “Our girls competed with heart,” said Rillera. “And our parents created a real presence in the gym. They brought a piece of Guam with them, and you could feel it.”
Legacy Volleyball Club extended its appreciation to sponsors including the Guam National Guard, Del Carmen Investments II, LLC, and tournament host A5 Volleyball Club. Special thanks were given to Gary Aromin, Boys Director at A5 and a proud son of Guam, for his warm hospitality and continued support. Legacy returns to Guam proud of their performance and ready and prepared to carry the momentum forward.
