Amanda Weirich
Staff Writer
Hammond’s Varsity Volleyball team is looking to continue making big improvements for the upcoming years. The team consisting of one sophomore, seven juniors, and four seniors has a record of 1-8 so far this season. Although they may not have many wins, they are determined to continue working hard.
Senior captain Trinity Addo says “This season we wanted to work on communication and keeping energy up, and I think we have definitely improved on that, and we continue to work on it.” Communication was a big part of their win against Patapsco High School, and is the start to them winning more.
Some of Varsity Volleyball’s toughest opponents include Atholton and Oakland Mills. Sophomore Abbie Weirich stated “Our toughest opponent was probably Oakland Mills. It was a tough loss for all of us and was a team we could have beat, but we just didn’t terminate.” Addo added that “Atholton has been our toughest opponent because they are two time state champions and they have really good skill on their team.”
With Hammond’s Varsity volleyball being a new team, they have made quick adjustments and have worked hard to try new things. “I knew that this would be a new group of athletes working together, so I really wanted them to gel as quickly as possible, and to try different positions. That’s something they’ve been doing since the very beginning of the season. No matter what I request, or [what] spot I ask them to try to find on the court, they do a really good job of listening” says Coach Corey.
Volleyball has been working hard and has come a long way with many improvements. Senior captain Hannah Gorel says “We have improved most [in] communication, and where everyone will be on the court.”
Weirich and Addo also agree that communication has been the biggest improvement, “In the beginning of the season we did not talk very much, and maybe that was because it was a new team, but we have come a long way” Weirich says.
“I am definitely most proud of some solid blocks and some solid kills. Even against teams that haven’t been quite the match for us, even if they’re ahead in points, we still have been consistent about trying to score. We don’t let our heads get too low, and this year we have had less roller coaster rides” explains Coach Corey.
Motivation is key to leading a team, and Hammond’s Varsity Volleyball offers that. Senior captain Hannah Gorel says “I lead and motivate the team by trying to put my best effort forward. I try my best to stay positive and talk to teammates about what to change.” With communication as a main focus, Varsity volleyball tries to do many team bonding activities. They have done an escape room and many times they like to go out to eat on days off or before the games.
“If we accomplish one of our team goals in a game our coach will give us a chick fil a gift card” Weirich says. This is another small way the volleyball team stays motivated. Now is a crucial time for the team to be motivated for the playoff season, “Playoffs we always go back to basics and capitalize on the positive moments we’ve had and celebrate those. When we come into playoffs we are going to be focusing on just making solid passes and trying to connect well with the ball. Communication is always huge in volleyball, so we’re going to be working on that. For the most part we are going to try to play Hammond volleyball and not give up on anything and give 100 percent” says Coach Corey.
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