Men’s Volleyball: Setting a Solid Start in First Competitions
By James Hanzel, Staff Writer
// The Acalanes men’s volleyball team (5-5 overall, 1-2 league) had a strong start to their season, winning three of their first four games, and continuing to keep it close and competitive against strong opponents.
To start the season, the Dons played Miramonte on Feb. 15 and won 3-0, putting up the same score against Pittsburg on Feb. 21. However, the Dons fell short losing 0-3 on Feb. 22 against the Moreau Catholic team, but rebounded with a close 3-2 win on Feb. 29 against Archie Williams. Outcomes of their games continued to alternate as they lost 2-3 against Heritage on March 7 and won 3-2 on March 12 against Encinal. Then, they competed in two more games back-to-back, losing to Monte Vista 0-3 on March 13, and winning against Las Lomas 3-1 on March 14.
Despite the ups and downs of the season so far, players feel that they have performed well against tough competition and are paving a path to success this season.
“The season has gone well, there have been some close games we have lost but we have still won a lot of games, especially against hard teams. Our schedule this year is really competitive but I think that the team has faced this adversity well and responded with our best efforts,” junior Avyn Morales said.
One challenge the team has faced during the start of their season is in terms of attendance due to various illnesses and injuries.
“We have faced a lot of players missing practices and games because of sickness or injuries. But, it is the season for colds. We are getting back on our feet and ensuring we are taking health safety seriously,” Head Coach Lexi Hammer said.
The team has high hopes that they can make a run at a league title and potentially NCS. However, in order to achieve these goals, they must first compete in important league games in the near future.
“The biggest games for our team this year are probably Campo because they are our rivals, as well as Berean Christian, because they are big league games and if we win that will be big to help us win the league or at least finish near the top,” junior Braedon Christie said.
The team consists of many experienced varsity players who help lead their teammates to achieve their full potential.
“This year, the chemistry is unmatched by any other team I have coached before. For the majority of the players on Varsity, this is the third year with them on my team. The amount of trust and knowing what to expect from me and the players causes a great open communication line and understanding,” Hammer said.
