Spring sports are in session at Hinsdale Central High School, and the boys volleyball team has been working hard to unite as a team and compete against other schools. The boys junior varsity and varsity teams have been spending their time getting involved in bonding activities, practices, work outs and learning new techniques to unite and combat other school teams this season. 

On Sunday, April 12, the varsity boys team will take on two matches against Montini and Lincoln Way West, and next week they play Wheaton Warrenville South and Geneva Warrenville South. With all the teams upcoming games players have spent their practices preparing themselves for extraordinary athletic performance.

“At practice we begin with dynamic stretching and a unique ball control warm up everyday to keep us learning,” said Eeshan Lal, a senior on the varsity team. 

This team is coached by an extensive coaching staff that has lots of college experience and gives the players a variety of new drills to make sure practices aren’t redundant. The coaching staff includes the head coach, Tom Gilbert, and assistant coach, Noah Randall. 

During practices, these players work as a community built on teamwork, dedication and constant improvement. To warm up they go through a series of drills, stretches and workouts to prepare themselves physically. During their drills, players spend time practicing serving, passing, setting and spiking. 

“We bond by post-game Canes runs, Chipotle runs, and also team dinners hosted by our great parent athlete leaders…most of us are all friends in school,” said Ken Reodica, a senior on the varsity team.

Volleyball is strictly a team sport so the players’ bonding time is crucial to improving their team. The boys have spent their time outside of practice grabbing food at local restaurants and communicating with each other as they grow closer inside and outside of practice. In practice, coaches often run drills that stimulate game situations. Helping the team learn how to react under pressure, communicate and work together effectively. 

“Our goal as a team is to advance into the state playoffs this year, it would be amazing if our team could win the state championship,” said Landyn Perona, a senior on the varsity team. 

The state playoffs are organized by the Illinois High School association, and it is a top goal for this team to make it to the playoffs and potentially win it all. 

The Hinsdale Central boys volleyball team this year presents a blend of hard work, learning and teamwork. With dedication and teamwork these players are continuing to grow as athletes and teammates. Their commitment behind the scenes is hoped to show great success on the court.