One of the most exciting times when students are eager to get to gym class is for the annual volleyball tournament. The annual volleyball tournament has been a tradition at South for years and is the culmination of the gym volleyball unit, which typically spans from November to December. The first few days focus on basic skills and ends with the volleyball tournament.

     “The tournament has been around for as long as I’ve known,” said gym teacher Mr. Michael Hussong.

     At the beginning of the tournament, all students are split into teams of roughly 5-12 students, and then a round-robin style tournament begins. Teams play each other to determine seeding, and then move into a double-elimination tournament that brings out the competitive spirit in many students.

     “From a physical education  perspective, we’re getting a lot of student involvement,” said Mr. Hussong. “We’re able to combine classes and work together, and still have a really effective classroom environment where everyone’s getting a chance to play.” 

     Ethan Hsiao (‘26) said, “People don’t ‘try hard’ in other sports like they do in volleyball.This tournament means so much to so many people.” 

     A big reason for the tournament’s popularity is the social aspect. “It’s a really fun team activity and we found students like to work with each other,” said Mr. Hussong. “They like to work with different teammates and have the opportunity to do that.”

     With so many people on one team, students get to compete alongside friends and meet new peers. “Volleyball is a team sport, where you can have different skill sets and contribute to your team in a positive way,” said gym teacher Mr. Michael Hussong. “You don’t have to be the biggest or the strongest to be a really effective volleyball player and help your team.”

     While building team chemistry and sharpening their volleyball skills, the tournament games can get intense, especially in the elimination rounds.

     “I don’t see the same amount of effort for other sports in the gym,” said Varun Shenoy (‘27), whose team was named “Chicken Sai.” “I think it’s because there’s a final prize if you win.”

     Tournament winners get featured on a wall of fame, which displays photos of all the winning teams from each gym period. With bragging rights and photo opportunities on the line, many students give their best to earn a spot on that wall.

     “We’ve seen teams come back from the loser’s bracket to win the championship,” Mr. Hussong said. “Those moments are always exciting.”