The varsity boys volleyball team defeated Fremont High School 3-0 today, May 3, in its final home game, securing the league title and ending its season with an 11-2 record. Although still a new team with much to learn, the Eagles have proven to be a tremendous volleyball powerhouse in its inaugural season. Fremont was second place in the league and the team’s main opponent for the league title.

“We were able to shut down Fremont by having aggressive serves, powerful hits, a sturdy block and a scrappy defense,” senior Alex Blackburn said.

For the team’s first year, this season has gone incredibly well. It won all of its games in the second half of the season, ending its nine-game win streak with the league title. Despite the team’s lack of club volleyball players, the players’ natural athleticism and determination to improve have created a team that has surpassed all expectations.

“We were lucky that everyone is athletic,” Alex said. “[Senior] Ian [McColl] [had] a great swing from water polo and [senior] Spencer [Simonides had] a great swing from tennis. Everyone tried their hardest at practice to get better. It all just turned into a great team.”

Sophomore Cesar Mejia cites strong teamwork and bonds as other reasons for the team’s success.

 “What I think helped the most was the bond that we created throughout the year,” Cesar said. “Overall, we can say that we were a group of guys who were able to make it to the top by supporting each other.”

Looking ahead, however, the team will have to rebuild next year. As the team has five seniors in its 12-man roster, nearly half the team will have to be replaced.

“The main thing is [we’re] going to have to build up a good offense again,” Alex said. “[We’re] losing half the team, and we are going to need a lot of guys to step up and take charge.”