The boys’ varsity volleyball team defeated East Side College Preparatory 3-0 on March 3. The final scores of the sets were 25-15, 25-11, and 25-18.
The team entered the game prepared both mentally and physically, focusing on the fundamentals, coach Naomi Lacuzong said. The team emphasized consistent defensive preparation leading up to the game, she added.
“Going into this game, we just worked on a lot of basics and got a lot of touches – just playing the ball and being prepared defensively,” Lacuzong said.
The team maintained a strong lead for most of the matches, junior libero Avi Ware said.
“In the third set, when it was around 13-12, we were only up by one point,” Ware said. “I felt like we needed to focus more, and we were able to push through and win by 7 points,” he added
Team bonding played a key role in their performance, especially since the game happened on a Wednesday, which is a short day.
“We bonded after school, got food, and stayed together,” Ware said. “That’s how we build our chemistry and energy before games.”
Communication was an important thing throughout the game, junior setter Ethan Chan said. Staying on the same page allows the team to execute plays effectively, he said.
“Everyone has to communicate and do their part on the court,” Chan said.
One of the biggest challenges is maintaining intensity against weaker opponents, Chan added.
“Our biggest weakness is letting our guard down when we play a team that is not as strong,” Chan said. “We tend to play down to their level”
The team’s chemistry has been a defining strength this season, Ware said. Many players have competed together for multiple years, building trust.
“I feel like we all trust each other,” Ware said. “That’s one of our biggest strengths.”
Many players stepped up today, Lacuzong said.
“We had a few players out today, but everyone was ready when it was their opportunity,” Lacuzong said.
Our communication skills help us solve disagreements, Chan said.
“We just talk it over after every play,” Chan said. “We communicate what we need to change.”
I took on a leadership role today by maintaining energy, Ware said.
“I try to keep the energy up, especially in games we expect to win,” Ware said.
I am most proud of my passing, I still think there is always room for improvement, Ware added.
“I pass pretty well, but I can always improve,” Ware said, “Communication can always be better.”
Growth remains the team’s primary goal moving forward, Lacuzong said.
“Communication, hustle, and aggression all go hand in hand,” Lazuzong said.
The win contributes positivity to the team’s league standing and moves them closer to playoff qualifications, Lacuzong said.
“This is a good win for us,” Lacuzong said. “Every league win gets us closer to first place.”
Looking ahead, players said they aim to continue improving consistency, communication, and overall intensity, regardless of the opponents, Lacuzong said.
“We build our confidence by practicing and working together,” Lacuzong said.
