The dought is over. Gilbert, winless at home last season, won in The Jungle for the first time since 2016 Thursday.

In 2017, the Tigers were 0-8 on their home court. They ranked last in the standings with a 0-10 inter-league showing.

But Gilbert's three-set sweep over McClintock underlined a new day for the Tigers (2-3).

Coach Joe Hesse, in his 20th season, hopes to rebound and return his team to its regional title form. 

“I think we outmatched that team. We’re a little bit ahead of where McClintock is but we’ll take a win because they’ve been hard to come by,” Hesse said.

Over the course of the 2017 season, the Tigers won a total of 17 sets, or 18.5  percent of their sets, ranking last in the standings. 

But adjustments are evident this season. Gilbert has won 50 percent of its sets.

Setter Catie Speas led the way to the 25-2, 25-9, 25-8 sweep.

Speas, a senior, coordinates the Tigers attack. She had 28 assists last week. The team captain aspires to lead her team to their 13th regional title in 14 years. 

“We all have a huge amount of passion to play volleyball. Our passion clashes with one another giving us good chemistry on the court,” Speas said.

Now in her fourth season, Speas possess an astute understanding of volleyball and an impressive skill set making for a powerful offensive attack. 

In an effort to build a more potent team, Hesse incorporated talented freshman outside hitter Naia Stewart.

“If projections are what I think they are she can be one of those special talents. She’s got a lot of what we’re looking for,” Hesse said.

Stewart led the team in kills last week, showcasing her aggressive athleticism and impressive dexterity. 

“She’s a great asset,'' said Speas. "She’s tall, has a lot of room to grow. But, I think she’s on the road to great things.” 

With a home victory in the books and a strong start, the Tigers have their sights set on the school's first state championship since 2011.