The JP Stevens boys volleyball team continues to show their unwavering motivation and resilience on the court, despite facing many challenges this season. With a roster full of passionate athletes driven by the same motives, this team shows true sportsmanship and determination.
Strong leadership was demonstrated by senior captains Charles Cheung, Prateek Wali, and junior captain Roman Sadowski. They agreed that the best part of this team is their connection both on and off the court, creating a sense of community in the program. “Whether it’s winning games on the court or raising money through fundraisers, it always feels great to achieve success with the great community of fellow students that we have on the volleyball team,” Roman said. Those successes include the car washes, bus rides, games, and practices, where a connection is created that translates onto the court.
One memorable game for the Hawks was against Monroe. “The intensity and determination we brought to beating them on their senior night pushed us beyond our limits. Through that experience, we truly discovered what our team was capable of,” Prateek said. When faced with a strong team, the Hawks remained confident and showed their winning spirit.
An individual who stood out this season was junior Namit Tamak. With most of the season completed, the libero already has 131 digs and is projected to surpass his 168 digs from last year at the rate he is going.
Freshman varsity setter James Lugo was another stand out this season. With half of the season done, he already has an impressive 119 assists. These numbers are unheard of when it comes to freshmen playing at a varsity level.
Head Coach Timothy Weber is especially proud of the way that his team is growing. “My favorite part of being the Boys Volleyball coach is seeing our players become better volleyball players and better people as the season progresses,” he said. “We all put a lot of time and effort into our season and it all pays off when you look back and see just how much better everyone has gotten.” The team has become closer and built more of a bond with one another which will only help them in their upcoming games.
It is only a matter of time before their hard work pays off, since connection is a necessity in a sport like volleyball. This youthful team has much potential to turn things around this year and a very promising future up ahead.