The JP Stevens boys volleyball team has had a tremendous journey these past few years,  and this season was no exception.  Due to the loss of several key players who graduated, the seniors this year did their best to maintain the intensity on and off the court, in hopes of repeating last year’s success. Head coach Mr. Scott Timko, who took over as the varsity coach this year, has done an excellent job at not only selecting the players for the team but also motivating them throughout the season.

The captains this season are exceptional leaders who not only adapted to their team’s needs but also aimed for excellency. While Captain senior Amaan Khan underwent a position change from middle blocker to opposite hitter, he managed to rack up over 170 kills, placing him as one of the top players in the state. Despite Captain senior Nathan Jiang also changing position from libero to outside hitter, he added another 100 kills. With setter and Captain junior Pranav Vijayananth quarterbacking the offense, these three senior captains make a deadly combo. Additionally, sophomore Namit Tamak, senior Aldrick Liu, and senior Chandra Cheedella have all played crucial roles in ensuring the team’s success.

Although the ability of the players is certainly important to the success of a team, it is just as important to maintain a strong bond between them. The upperclassmen, especially the seniors, have provided constant mentorship to the underclassmen about not just physical technique but also mental strength. Coach Timko is also focused on fostering a strong team dynamic while motivating the team when they need it. The leadership of the senior captains and their head coach has been another piece to their success. 

  Their hard work has paid off in many important matches. One example lies in their close match against South Brunswick. With the match going to 3 sets, this nail-biting game was full of major saves, most of the time ending with players on the floor. In the last set, both teams locked in and refused to give up easily. The game tested all of the skills that the players had developed during their practice sessions and ultimately resulted in a Hawks victory, 27-25.  

Overall, the volleyball team has had a special and successful season. With close matches and a great team dynamic, the underclassmen must begin to say goodbye to their seniors, who have guided them on and off the court. Against St. Joseph, the Hawks had a senior night on May 10th, celebrating the departure of many key players. They also had another “White Out” game against Edison High, honoring the passing of their former head coach Mr. Anthony White. Students wore white to remember his legacy and significant impact on the JP Stevens Community. 

The JP Stevens Boys Volleyball team has shown that with adaptation, perseverance, and chemistry, success can be achieved. Coach Timko and the senior captains have set the bar high for future volleyball teams to come, and they have left a lasting legacy on the school’s volleyball program.