The 2008-2009 Boy’s Volleyball CIF Champions work towards another championship title as they build a new team from the ground up. Boy’s Volleyball graduated six key players last year: Matthew Taylor, Mathew Black, Alex Mendiola, Davion Matthews, Tyler Cronwell, and Leo Billon—leaving only one returning player: Dylan Marquess.

“The loss of last year’s key player’s will affect this years performance greatly because two of the players that left were the core of our offense [Matthew Taylor and Matthew Black],” Marquess said. “Our offense revolved around their every move; we always looked to get them the ball, and with their loss, we will be looking for a new offensive leader.”

This year’s team is young and inexperienced but they are willing to step up to the plate. David Rivera and Nick Alvarez look promising in filling up those empty positions.

“I’m pumped to be back playing,” Rivera said. “I’m ready to compete and win league!”

Rivera was on the varsity court his freshman year, but unfortunately, moved away after season only to return now his senior year and sophmore Alvarez, although young, with the proper training can be crucial for the team.

The fact that the team is inexperienced will work in the Vikings’ favor. Coach Rand is willing to work the boys hard and develop a new team philosophy.

“My plan to build a new successful team is to become a dominant defensive team,” Coach Rand said. “I know our team is capable of this because we have various athletes that are quick and willing to fly after balls. If our team develops a great defense, our offense will eventually fall in place.”

The 2010 volleyball team’s philosophy is to work hard and never look back on mistakes. The team will need to look forward, learn from mistakes and progress quickly.