This year the TGS girls’ volleyball team is much smaller than in years prior. There is only a varsity team, mostly due to the departure of last year’s seniors, some of whom had played on the team since their freshman year. Now, the legacy of the girls’ volleyball team lies in the hands of long time players Eunice Ineza and Marina Sandoval, the captain. So what is going to happen to the dynamic of the team now that more than half of them are gone?
Sandoval expressed excitement when asked about being this year’s team captain. She loves the group of girls on the team and is looking forward to seeing how the new players adapt to the sport.
Many of the girls are inexperienced when it comes to volleyball. However, Sandoval isn’t worried about the lack of experience at all. She wants to see how the new girls interpret the teamwork aspect, the strategy, and the game play that goes into the rigorous sport.
Most of the class of 2019 that left had been playing as a team together for many years. Now the volleyball team is full of girls who have not been playing together for nearly as long. Sandoval hopes to educate these new players on how to play the sport and work well together. Sandoval says volleyball is a mental game more than anything else, so they really need to work together as a team, just like in previous years.
“Every game does have to do with your physicality, height, stamina, and hand-eye coordination. But because these girls are so young, they aren’t as developed in those areas yet.” She mentioned that this might put them at a disadvantage, however, their mentality and their teamwork is what is going to pull them through and keep them going throughout games. This is what is going to make them a team to be reckoned with.
She already sees that the girls on the team are stronger together and are bonding. Sandoval mentions that there can be drama within the sport, but believes that “without a doubt” there is no drama with this particular team this year, and they will be better because of it.
Sandoval has high hopes for the year and feels the team will just continue to grow their talent and their love of the sport. She isn’t discouraged by the small size or lack of experience amongst some of the newer members because she believes that with her help as a captain, and with the help of the coach, these new teammates can learn the necessary skills and teamwork in order for them to win.
Written by Kira McNeill (lead copy editor)