With multiple setbacks prior to the start of the season, the Bishop Gorman men’s volleyball team has displayed their resilience and teamwork.
The team experienced changes within the coaching staff and has had a few injured players. New head coach, Matt Muldoon, took on this role only a couple days before tryouts. The only time the players had for preparation were a few open gyms in order to meet the new coach.
Nonetheless, the dedicated team was able to prepare on their own. Setter and outside hitter Rome Ramos ‘26 expressed that, “Most of the team during off season, committed to playing for a club team this year and that allowed us to gain new experiences and increase the skill level of our play before the season.” These out of season reps have allowed the players to stay sharp on their skills.
Although the Gaels have had a rough start to the season, they are working diligently to turn their losses into wins. Every day at practice, they are “working on serve receive, working on siding out and getting more aggressive balls in play” outside hitter Clive Fuentes ‘27 explained. Working on these fundamentals allows the team to have more options when running their hitters. They have even been trying out new positions to see who fits best where, even if it’s not their traditional position.
The energy and dedication from every player is shown on and off the court. The team has no new players this year which makes it even easier to continue that bond that was created throughout previous seasons. Fuentes expressed, “We are trying to be a community first and teammates second. Building our off the court connection is just as valuable as the chemistry on[the court].” This mindset has been displayed throughout every game played so far.
Although they have only pulled out two wins, their potential and ambition allows them to reset and take on their upcoming games with a new and improved attitude.
The boys are hoping to make it far in the 4A division, which would mean a big comeback from the beginning of the year. Setter and libero Miles Boquiren ‘27 explained that most players agree that a “successful season” would look like “making it to the playoffs, even if not making it to state.”
“This is my last year with this team,[so] I want to go out and lay it all out on the court to show my appreciation for this sport. I also want to inspire the players younger than me to become a better version than they are now.” expressed Ramos. This point of view summarizes the determination and genuine appreciation that the players have for this sport. This along with their ability will allow them to climb the rankings in the upcoming weeks.
The boys play Pinecrest Academy Sloan Canyon tonight, March 30, at 6pm in the House of Glory.
