The PHU Volleyball team is not new to successful seasons. With a
large number of talented players, they progress far each year. Regardless of lost time due to the Hurricane last month, the team has been working hard during both their long practices and games. Some of the girls on the team play club volleyball outside of school as well, which only increases the level of talent on the team.
Alexandra Xilas (24′) says “The season has been progressing well and we are mostly winning, I’m feeling very confident in the team.” Some may think volleyball is not as physically demanding as other sports, such as football or other contact sports, but it is still hard on the players with harsh practices as well as summer conditioning. Yes, they don’t just start working hard when school starts, it is a lot more for them. When asked what her least favorite part of the season was, Alexandra (24′) said “Probably summer conditioning, even though I love the weight room, we don’t get as much court time to play so it is not as fun.”
For many of the girls’ volleyball is what they love, so they really cherish their time playing,
even when it can be physically challenging. “We all have bruises from diving for the ball so
much.” says Alexandra (24′). You might never expect to hear that from someone that doesn’t play a traditional contact sport.
Don’t let this discourage you, when asked what advice she would give to someone wanting to join the team Alexandra (24′) said “Don’t be intimidated by any older girls or your
skill level, just play aggressively and with effort.” Many can say that is one of the most
important parts of playing volleyball, because being shy on the court won’t do anything to
help you.
With multiple seniors on the team, you can only imagine how they balance a
demanding volleyball season at the same time as college applications, and whatever else
senior year brings. This feeling doesn’t stop at just the volleyball players, as many senior
student athletes that have their seasons at the beginning of the year have to figure out how to deal with all of it at once. They could also be not wanting the season to end, as that would be their last high school season ever. Even students who continue their sport in college
could still feel this way, as it is a different feeling being part of a high school sport, especially if you have been playing on that team all 4 years. “It’s bittersweet, I know I will miss volleyball, but I’m ready for the next chapter and other sports.” says Alexandra (24′)
Our volleyball team has a very close dynamic for the most part with lots of support from both teammates and coaches, “It’s full of energy and everyone is always joking around including the coaches.” says Alexandra (24′). When asked what her favorite part of the team is, she said “Definitely the people. Playing with likeminded people is so rewarding and I’ve
had the chance to meet people I otherwise may not have been friends with.” This only helps them for a more successful, positive season.