The 2025-26 school year is off to a great start, and the campus is once again full of students and energetic vibes. The same excitement is also on the athletic fields and courts. During the first week of school, students who wanted to join the volleyball team showed their skills through volleyball tryouts. Unfortunately, there were not enough spots for everyone to be a part of the team. Those who successfully joined the varsity are now shifting their focus to the season ahead. Now, with the roster set, the players are training hard for a winning season. We interviewed several students from the varsity volleyball team to know about their information about volleyball and tips for playing volleyball.

Justin Kim / 11 / Captain and Middle Blocker

1. How do you support your teammates on and off the court?
As a captain, I support my teammates on the court by encouraging them, communicating clearly, and leading, especially when the game gets tough. And off the court, I make sure to build team spirit through bonding and have good relationships. I always try to be someone they can trust and rely on.

2. What do you consider to be your biggest strength on the court?
My biggest strength is my height. My position is middle blocker who requires height for blocking both sides, spiking, and fast breaks.

3. What do you think the team needs to work on for a winning season?
After a few games, I realized that we are struggling with basic skills such as receiving and serving. So we are going to practice serving and receiving more.

4. Do you have any pre-game rituals or routines?
I always go to the restroom and try not to get nervous. I talk with my teammates to not make them nervous too.

Rachel Kang / 12 / Captain and Right Blocker

1. How do you support your teammates on and off the court?
As captain, I try to set the tone by staying positive and encouraging, even when things get tough. On the court, I make sure to communicate clearly and keep everyone’s energy up. Off the court, I try to be close with them.

2. What do you consider to be your biggest strength on the court?
Communication and encouragement. I always cheer for teammates with a loud voice during the games. Such as shouting chants.

3. What do you think the team needs to work on for a winning season?

Focus on consistency. We have the talent and skills, but sometimes we let small mistakes affect us.

4. Do you have any pre-game rituals or routines?
Yes—I usually listen to music before games. It helps me clear my mind and get into the right mindset.

5. How has playing volleyball shaped you as a person, on and off the court?
Volleyball has taught me patience, and how to work as part of a team. As captain, I’ve learned how important communication is, not just in sports but in life.

Ailey Oh / 11 / Middle Blocker

1. Please share any volleyball tips for students who want to play volleyball
It is important to always stay low and be ready to move. Talking to your teammates is very crucial so that everyone knows what’s happening.

2. Why did you sign up for the varsity volleyball tryout?
I love being active and working with a team. Playing volleyball is fun, fast, and makes me feel confident and strong.

3. What do you think the team needs to work on for a winning season?
I think clear communication is important. We must stay focused and stay positive which makes a big difference to the result.

4. What’s your goal for this season?
My goal for the season is to improve my skills and become a stronger teammate. I also want to help my team win more games and have fun.

5. Do you have any pre-game rituals or routines?
We always do a quick warm-up. We also do a team cheer to boost our energy and stay connected.

6. How has playing volleyball shaped you as a person, on and off the court?
Volleyball has taught me how to stay positive and never give up, even when things get tough. It has also helped me build confidence and trust others both on and off the court.

Justin Nam / 10 / Right Spiker

1. Why did you sign up for the varsity volleyball tryout?
I love volleyball and playing on the school team would allow me to pursue my passion.

2. What do you consider to be your biggest strength on the court?
I know how to raise team spirit and help my teammates stay positive.

3. What do you think the team needs to work on for a winning season?
We need to build stronger teamwork because volleyball is a team sport where every player’s contribution both on and off the court counts.

4. Do you have any pre-game rituals or routines?
I go to the bathroom to avoid a bathroom trip during the game!

5. How has playing volleyball shaped you as a person, on and off the court?
Playing volleyball taught me how to overcome hardships and to never give up despite all the challenges.