Freshmen and Sophomores meet at the net

Ryan Werner spikes the ball on his opponents.

BY ANGELINA PEREZ

Freshmen and sophomore students participated in a volleyball tournament after school on March 11. The tournament consisted of 120 students split into 14 teams.

Students could create their own teams with their friends, but they had to follow certain rules. “You had to have a mix of males and females on your team,” explained sophomore class faculty advisor Brittany Fuentes, who helped organize the event. “Two females were mandated to be on the court at all times throughout the tournament.”

For many people, the tournament served as a great competition where even the most competitive of players had a great time. “It felt great,” commented Jaden Wong, a sophomore who plays volleyball for the school. “It was really fun, and there was a lot of competition.”

Music also contributed to the fun with Physical Education teacher Richard Torok DJing the event. “I also just liked the fact that there was music because me and my team were dancing the whole time while playing!” stated Victoria Botte.

Kyleigh Rhodes sends an overhand serve towards the other team.

To reach the finals, teams had to fight their way through every other team in their grade, earning the chance to represent their grade in the championship game. “Team Rice” won the entire tournament in the final match and beat the winners of the freshman bracket. “It was pretty easy coming from organized volleyball and having the skills that I have,” said Oskar Lapinski, who has racked up 123 kills for the varsity team so far this season. “I was trying to have fun while winning. Overall, it was a great feeling coming out on top.”

Jack Machette tosses the ball in the air and steps into his serve.

Students get competitive outside of the classroom and on the court. “I really enjoyed working with my team and going against countless classmates in a more competitive manner,” said Ryleigh Lynch.

Others thought of the tournament as a great way to just play and cheer on their friends when they won a game. “The highlight of the tournament for me was when my team and I won our first game,” said Botte. “It was just so fun, and we were all so excited.”

With so many students enjoying the tournament, the organizers hope to expand the event in the future. “We’re hoping to have more events similar to the volleyball tournament!” said Fuentes. “We were happy to see so many students involved.”