The UC High Boys Indoor Volleyball Team is heading into their season with strong team chemistry and preparation for their upcoming competitions. The team is excited to take on their opponents on the court and improve as a whole. They are ready to face their opponents and continue to build team chemistry and get stronger.
“So far, the team is working really well together. We’re learning to trust each other more with every game and practice and that’s making our plays smoother and stronger,” said Setter Junior Joshua Poblete. As the players continue to get closer and more comfortable with each other, it shows on the court.
Poblete said, “My favorite part is definitely the friendships and support we have. Being part of the team feels like being part of a family and that makes playing even more fun.” Not only has the team brought great play, but also great friendships.
Outside Hitter Junior Kai Selleck agrees with Poblete that the team’s dynamic is strong and improving, making practices more fun and competitive. Selleck said, “I’m super excited for our League. I think there is going to be some of our best competition there, and I think we have a shot at doing super well.” This team is not afraid of competition but is ready to use it as fuel for improvement.
Coach Aaron Hartin has a lot of faith in his team and wants this season to be one to remember. When talking about his goals for the season, Hartin said, “We have won 19 games in two of our last four seasons so we are still looking for a 20-win season. We also will be making a run at this year’s Eastern League Championship. At the end of the day, however, I want the boys to have the time of their lives as members of this year’s team.”
The team is packed with talent this year. Hartin said, “This year’s team has three very talented setters and we have a lot of strong attackers so we expect to be very strong in the setter to hitter connection.”
There are a few players in particular to watch out for this season. “Lincoln Holzman is spending his fourth year on the Varsity Team. His experience and talent is very important on this team. Jonan Merle is another important senior and he was chosen as this year’s captain by his teammates. Kai Selleck was the other captain selected. He is a junior with a lot of club volleyball experience. He will be spending his first season as an outside hitter after playing two seasons as our starting libero. So far, he has made the transition really well,” said Hartin.
Unfortunately, a vital member of the team, Outside Hitter Senior Jacob Brantuas, is in recovery from a broken leg. Hartin said, “His rehab is going very well and we are hoping to get him back before our League schedule begins. Jacob is a very exciting player with an impressive vertical jump. If he comes back, this team will definitely be in the hunt for a League championship in April.”
Poblete said, “I’m most excited for the big matches where we get to show how much we’ve improved and how well we can work together as a team.” By the looks of how much they’ve already improved, it is clear that the team will have a lot to show off when League play comes around.
The UC High Boys Volleyball Team is ready to take on their opponents in League and make it a 20-win season this year. With their strong hitter to setter connections, they are set up for victory. So far, they are looking very strong with a 7-3 record to start off the season.