With their first match next Thursday, March 23, against Wheaton Academy, the boys volleyball program is kicking into high gear and working hard to fulfill their goals for their upcoming season.

After graduating eight senior players last season, the York Varsity Boys Volleyball team is filled with fresh talent and new leadership on the court.

“We have a lot of inexperienced players this year,” said Coach Dowdy, varsity volleyball coach. “We have a lot of talented, from a skill-set standpoint, players coming in with a junior class that I believe only lost one match last year.”

Led by seniors Rio Diaz, Dylan Kalchik, Michael Pennel, Evan Haug, John Goehl, RJ Lesus, Sam Jordan-Wood, and Jack Crowley, the Dukes are heading into this season with high hopes and lots of excitement.

“My goal is to first win regionals, and then hopefully win our sectional to make it to state,” said Rio Diaz, senior. “But what I would love the most is to see our team grow not only in skill but also as friends and teammates.”

Camaraderie and communication will be a major key to this success for the Dukes this year.

“The seniors have worked hard to get where they’re at and they’re players that lead by example on the court,” said Coach Dowdy. “They could be more vocal; having played under eight seniors, we need them to step up into that role to be leaders both on the court and vocally in practice and matches.”

Catch the York Varsity Boys Volleyball Team in action at their first home game against Lincoln-Way West on Mon., April 3, in the Green and White Gym.