After losing in the first round of CCS to Menlo Atherton last year, the Paly girl’s volleyball team is ready for another strong season this fall. The team placed third in their league last year with a record of 8-4. The Vikings won the De Anza league in the 2020 season and are hoping for a similar outcome this coming season. 

Girls volleyball lost 8 senior players, many who are going on to compete at the next level, and are eager to see how this will affect the upcoming season. Furthermore, there are many returning players who are sure to set the tone for this season. Senior libero Jess Watanabe has been on Varsity ever since stepping foot on Paly campus. 

“I’m looking forward to playing my senior year and competing against other schools,” Watanabe said.

Aside from the many returning varsity players, there are also many new players this season. Right Side hitter and junior Reine Schultz is new to varsity and is excited to lead the rest of the juniors this year. 

“I think we can pull through this season with our players,” Schultz said. “Our coach is working hard to ensure we make the most out of every practice and making a comfortable environment for the players.”

 Despite the setback of losing valuable players, there are many incoming freshman with tremendous talent. Varsity Coach Chris Crader is optimistic about the new prospects and the hard work sure to be present during this season. 

“While it will take time to get everything clicking perfectly after losing so many players to graduation, I think it’s going to be a fun and successful season,” Crader said. “Not just for varsity, but for our JV and freshman teams as well.”

The team is ready for a season of success starting with their upcoming game against Westmont on August 26. Westmont is one of the two non-league games on the schedule this year, along with the highly anticipated matchup against Saint Francis.