Dec. 11, 2024
By Isabella Apple
Staff Writer
The girls volleyball team completed a historic season on Nov. 14. After completing its regular season with a 21-3 record, the girls won the State Sectional Championship on Nov. 12 at home against West Morris Mendham High School. This was the first time since 1990 that the team earned this title.
Senior middle blocker Gianna DeCoro, who has been on varsity for three years, said she attributes the team’s success to the mentorship of Head Coach Vahalla.
“He made us work extra hard in practice so that when it came to game time, we knew what to expect,” DeCoro said.
She said communication is an important part of the sport and the players did a good job lifting each other’s spirits on the court.
“If someone made a mistake, we had their back and made sure to get the point right back,” DeCoro said.
“This team was committed and dedicated to getting better every day, and it showed at the end of the season by accomplishing… our goals.”
Sophomore right-side hitter Gabriela Kalisiak, who has been on varsity for two years, said competing in four state games this season helped the players strengthen their bond and improve their skills.
“We were smart and learned how to be a team and have faith in each other while also having much love and passion for the game,” Kalisiak said.
Like DeCoro, Kalisiak credits the team’s accomplishments to Vahalla.
“Our coach had such a positive impact on us that brought us together,” Kalisiak said.
Vahalla said the players’ achievements were a result of their diligence.
“This team was committed and dedicated to getting better every day, and it showed at the end of the season by accomplishing… our goals,” Vahalla said.
The team’s season ended after losing 0-2 in the state group semifinal away game against Northern Valley Regional High School at Old Tappan on Nov. 14.
Vahalla said it was a great experience for the team to have the support of their peers, who took a fan bus to the game so they could cheer the girls on.
“We played extremely well, and I am proud of how we handled the pressure and crowd at Old Tappan,” said Vahalla.
