Padua Academy Swept Saint Mark's in Volleyball
Padua Academy secured a three-set victory over Saint Mark's High School on Tuesday.
Updated on Sept. 23, 2026 in Volleyball
Padua Academy defeated Saint Mark's High School in a straight-set victory to remain undefeated. The match concluded with set scores of 25-16, 26-24, and 25-23.
Why it matters
The win maintains Padua Academy's perfect start to the season while handing Saint Mark's its first loss of the year. Padua's ability to rally in the final set proved decisive in the outcome.
Padua Academy recorded a 3-0 sweep with individual set scores of 25-16, 26-24, and 25-23. Julia Kelley led the offensive effort for the team by recording 10 kills during the match.
The players
Padua Academy
Padua Academy is a Wilmington-based secondary school that maintains a competitive volleyball program.
Saint Mark's High School
Saint Mark's High School is a private Catholic preparatory school located in Milltown.
Julia Kelley
Julia Kelley is a volleyball player for Padua Academy who contributed 10 kills in the win.
The details
Padua Academy opened the match by scoring the first five points of the first set. The team later overcame a significant 20-14 deficit in the third set to complete the sweep.
Timeline
September 22, 2026: Padua Academy defeated Saint Mark's High School.
September 24, 2026: Padua and Saint Mark's play their next scheduled games.
Season Trajectory
This victory marks a critical point in the early season, helping Padua Academy establish itself as a top contender. The loss forces Saint Mark's to adjust its momentum as both programs look toward their next conference matchups.
Padua Academy improves its season record to 3-0, while Saint Mark's moves to 3-1. Julia Kelley's 10-kill performance reinforces her role as a primary offensive threat for future rotations.
The takeaway
Maintaining composure during large late-set deficits is essential for high-level high school volleyball success. Teams that can execute under pressure are significantly more likely to sustain undefeated records throughout the season.
What happens next
Padua Academy is scheduled to play Unionville on Thursday, September 24, 2026. Saint Mark's High School will visit Archmere on the same date.
Further reading
For more local sports results, check out the Volleyball section.
