Coming off of an undefeated preseason, the Saint Francis Boys’ Volleyball team has kicked off league play with impressive victories against Sacred Heart Cathedral and Valley Christian High School to currently sit undefeated in WCAL. The team has a promising season ahead of them, but let’s take a closer look at their season so far.
Recently, the team had an impressive victory over last year’s CCS Champions, Valley Christian, in five sets. Armaan Vaghode (’25) said, “we definitely outplayed them that day.” Daniel Devine (’25) added, “For me personally, the game was significant for a multitude of reasons, primarily being that they were the favorites to win and that they beat us in the CCS finals last year, which immediately creates motivation to win. And we won.” Both also cited their game against Sacred Heart Cathedral as equally significant. Vaghode explained, “They were ranked [second] in WCAL when we played them, so we knew it was going to be a tough game. I would say that that game was the most consistent we have played so far this season, as we won 3-0.”
Practice is undoubtedly essential to performing well during games, so a volleyball practice is split into four different focuses in order to ensure growth in multiple areas. Vaghode described what a typical practice looks like: “First, we warm up by playing a fun 2v2 game. Then, we split off into two courts by position and work on specific skills based on position. Then, we all come together on one net and work on some situational skills and try to run some plays. Lastly, we play some sort of 6v6 game that is competitive, and the objective is to win. My favorite part would be the last focus of 6v6 competition because I get to compete against my friends, which is always really fun.”
A positive team culture is also vital to the team’s success. Vaghode elaborated, “We see each other not just as teammates but more as a family that gets to play volleyball together. Every person has a role on the team that helps the team succeed in games.” Traditions on the team also help create a camaraderie amongst teammates, helping them connect on the court. For example, Devine shared, “Pointing at a person after they do something well or really any form of recognition is something we try to emphasize to make sure everybody feels appreciated and seen.” Vaghode also notes how the team prays before games: “I feel like that really resets our minds and drives our focus to the game really well.”
The team also recently took a trip down to San Diego to play in the Best of the West Tournament against some of the best teams in the country, which further united them. Devine reported, “[We] managed to hold our own against several of them.” Looking ahead, Vaghode said he is excited about “competing in playoffs because that’s where we can really prove ourselves and show that our hard work throughout the season has really paid off.” Come out and support our volleyball team as they continue throughout league play into the postseason.
