Boys volleyball sets the bar high for regionals

Seniors+Andrew+Luksik%2C+JP+Estrada+and+Leoandro+Cortado+prepare+for+a+serve+on+senior+night+against+Cox+High+School+on+Tuesday%2C+Oct.+18%2C+2022.

Kendra Drew

Seniors Andrew Luksik, JP Estrada and Leoandro Cortado prepare for a serve on senior night against Cox High School on Tuesday, Oct. 18, 2022.

Boys volleyball team steps up in order to continue their season win streak for regionals. They had regional games on Nov. 3 and Nov. 9 at Ocean Lakes High School. 

“The team has been working very hard to prepare for regionals. Our coaches have been scouting our competition to let us know what to expect and what we have to watch out for when going into the playoffs,” said senior JP Estrada. 

The volleyball team dominated Grassfield High School with a score of 3-0 at their first regional game on Wednesday, Nov. 2, at Ocean Lakes High School. Players Leandro Cortado, Vincent Yi and Donny Velasquez lead the team to victory. 

“All of the boys played well during our first regional game, and I was happy to get a quick win in three sets,” said senior Andrew Luksik. 

At their second regional game, on Saturday, Nov. 5 at Ocean Lakes, the team had a devastating loss against James River High School, former six-time state champions, which ended their volleyball season. The Dolphins took a 2-0 lead, but ultimately lost 3-2 in the final sets. 

“The boy’s volleyball team lost a heartbreaker against James River in the regional semi-final match held at Ocean Lakes. Ocean Lakes finished the season with an impressive 21-4 record. Indeed a season of which to be proud. Hold your heads high,” said Principal Dr. Claire LeBlanc. 

To get involved with the boys’ volleyball team next year, students can follow the team’s instagram page, @olboysvolleyball, to get important information and updates on open gyms, conditioning and tryout dates for next season. 

“My advice for incoming freshmen is to start early. Don’t wait until tryouts to show up. Put the work in during the off season and get familiar with the game,” said JP. “We all want to build this program and make sure that Ocean Lakes Volleyball remains a big competitor in the state.”