The Upper Perk Volleyball team is taking the PAC by storm this year. One of the uprising teams that has grabbed our school and the PAC by storm is the Upper Perk High School Girls Volleyball team. The question is, how did the team turn around their losing streak from last season to now winning their first tournament and being a known threat on the court?
Added in 2022, girls’ volleyball is a relatively new addition to the variety of sports at UPHS. It is coached by Physics teacher duo Mr. Gregory and Mr. Tirjan, who both have first-hand experience playing volleyball. Last year, the girls struggled to get by, with a record of only 3-14. However this year, the team is on the surprise with a record of 5-3 and a Red Rover Invitational tournament win under their belt, which they participated in on Saturday, September 7th.
Coach Tirjan tells the WSJ that off-season work is a major contributing factor to the success. “The impact that club volleyball had on the current varsity team is incredible, and it’s crazy how much it improved their skills,” he says, “it really made us a different team.” Both coaches agree that other factors contributing to this new and improved varsity team include harder drills at practice, coachability, a strong team bond, and an understanding of dynamics.
“In the end, it’s all about their drive and determination.” Coach Gregory adds, explaining how the girls’ motivation has helped to make the team even stronger. “We’re going to need that because PACs and districts are all new to us, it’s a whole different animal” Coach Tirjan explains.
Although there is no doubt the team is coming together, there is always room for improvement. Some skills the coaches reveal they want to continue building on are serving, hitting to targets, and better passing to the setter.
If you want to keep up with our high school girls’ volleyball team as the season continues, check the school athletics page located on the UPSD website to find their schedule, fundraisers, and more. Good luck to the volleyball team with the rest of the season and keep pushing forward!
