Six players are standing in position on the gym court, shoes scuffing nervously on polished gym floors. The whistle blows to signal the start of the game, and suddenly, everyone is focused on a single green, gold, and yellow ball. The players fight for each point, bumping the ball to the other side of the court with their hands overlapping each other they know that a single point decides the game.
The varsity boys volleyball team dominated this season with The varsity boys volleyball team holding the Lacey Tournament trophy. a 18-1 overall record. The team has over 500 kills, which is the number of times they hit the ball over the net and into the opponent’s court, and more than 100 aces, which is an immediate point that came from a serve. Both numbers are far over the average of 250-300 kills and 70-90 aces, according to NJ.com high school sports rankings.
Their winning record reflects how well the team plays together. “We all have this amazing connection, which has helped us a lot,” said team captain Ryan Thompson (‘26). “That tightness plays a big part in winning.”
Standout junior Srivishal More (‘27), who has earned almost 30% of the team’s 478 kills, said, “If I skip a workout, I’m also skipping time with my friends, so it gives me more incentive to show up.”
That closeness carried over into their off-season preparation too. Last season, the team lost in the state finals to Southern High School. The loss has only fueled their motivation for this season.
“The players said let’s improve, let’s get better, let’s do all the little things to really step up our game,” said Head Varsity Coach David Colon. “It really carried on into this season so far.”
Ambitious for another deep playoff run, the players go into each state final game with a positive mindset.
Thompson said, “At any moment, a big explosive play can happen. There’s still potential to win the game even after being back a few points.”
With a close-knit roster and a hunger to win, the team looks to continue their dominance and have their eyes set on one thing: the state title
