South’s volleyball team, consisting of approximately 30 players and 3 teams is one of the more notable sports at South this year. As of October 7th, 2022, they’ve played 10 matches and are gearing up for their upcoming game on October 11th. 

Currently, the volleyball team’s record is 3-7. Throughout the season, the players had to go through many challenges. “There were some roadblocks this season. We’ve had a couple of injuries along with people who fell sick, and that made it a little hard to create progress as a team,” Varsity player Lilia Edwards states. B-Squad player Raji Strickland also told us,  “There was a smaller turnout this season than we expected, making it difficult to substitute players when one got injured or sick.” Though there were certainly some setbacks to the team this season, there were also a lot of new highs and improvements that the team has accomplished. 

“Compared to last season, we’re harder working and have more drive in us. We want to win and we’ve been making every moment count,” Edwards said. “Our team chemistry this season is amazing and I feel very connected with everyone. Overall, we’re just in an amazing position emotionally,” JV player Olive Grabe adds.

The team recently won their home game against Park Center, winning 2 out of the 3 sets. “This game was really close and nerve-racking for me. Getting the win depended on my serve and I felt a lot of pressure on my shoulders. The fact that I got the game-winning serve in this game was one of my favorite moments in volleyball ever,” Edwards said. “This game was really fun and my favorite part was when I got a really good save in the second half,” Grabe added. Everyone was on the edge of their seats. The gym was completely filled and cheers would erupt from the crowd every time South would score a point.

The team practices Monday to Friday in the gym from 3 pm to 5 pm. They’re led by coaches Wanda Carter (Varsity), Ashley Green (JV), Raquel Henderson (B-Squad), and Rosie Letofsky (9th Grade). During those practices, the team first sets up the nets and participates in a dynamic warm-up. After that, it differentiates from day to day, but the team usually does a variety of drills. Some of those drills include defensive practice, serve/receive, hitters vs passers, and more.  

The team has 3 games left before sections, including one home game on October 18th. They’re sad that they’re nearing the end of their season, but happy that they’ve accomplished so much. Throughout the season, South’s volleyball team has proven time and time again that they’re incredibly skilled and will continue to do so. They’re definitely a team to watch out for.