In high school sports, losing seniors can be tough, especially when they made up more than 75% of the team. Last year, the SHS men’s volleyball team placed second in the GMC with a record of 6-2. Out of the 14 team members, 11 of them were seniors. This year, the team has gone through a massive reconstruction and now has five seniors, two juniors, three sophomores, and only one freshman. Only two returning players remain.
Even with the massive change, they played their first official game of the season on March 25th and beat West Clermont in four sets. The team showed scrappy defense and held a strong block on the net. Before the game, head coach and SHS math teacher Mr. Stanley Kaniecki said he wants his team to “be confident and play hard.” Kaniecki also stated the program’s goal was to build a positive atmosphere that consists of hard work and putting players in the best position to succeed. After the game, one of the newest members of the team, Holden Kraus, 9, said that it was a great start to his high school volleyball career and an even better way to begin the season. Kraus is the only freshman on varsity and plays all around, setting from back row and playing right side in the front row.
During the game versus West Clermont, he showed his ability to go against the grain in his sets and swing aggressively in front row. They also won their second game of the season on Thursday, March 26 against Fairfield. Despite having to start from scratch, the SHS men’s volleyball team has already begun building a new identity. With confidence, hard work, and a strong 2-0 start to the season, they’ve shown they can bring a high level of competition to the court.
