The KO varsity volleyball team, led by new Head Coach Joe Sobowicz, has put up a fierce record of 7-3. After losing four crucial seniors last year, the team has regrouped and found their footing. Focusing on creating a culture of hard work and holding each other accountable, the girls continue to give all their effort each day as the end of the season nears.
The team has played 14 games so far, five of which were won without letting their opponent win a single set—an impressive feat. The girls have also had some tight 3-2 wins against schools like Kent and Taft. The girls have won a staggering total of 27 sets this year!
Coach Sobwicz looks to win the NEPSAC championships this year. “If you’re not trying to win it all, then I don’t know why we’re playing the game,” he explained. He also mentioned that leading up to NESPACs, being able to win games and have a successful season is important to the team.
This season, the Wyverns have been focusing on team-building and creating a strong team environment. Having fun while playing is important too. Coach Sobwicz mentioned that last year’s team was divided into smaller friend groups, which they have worked to break up. “We’re just trying to be one big family,” he said. Coach Sobwicz explained that during practice he is very focused, serious, loud, and energetic, but outside of practice, he is fun. The team has gone to Cheesecake Factory, as well as a UConn volleyball game. They have even done an escape room together!
Coach Sobwicz said that he truly believes that everyone on the team loves the game of volleyball. He explained that to have a strong team, there has to be a love of the sport. He pointed to the strength of the team’s hitters, noting that the Wyverns needed to work on creating better passes so they can really utilize those hitters.
Something that has proven to be a challenge for the team is accountability. “When things get tough, we blame each other,” Coach Sobwicz said. He says they have been working towards taking the blame as a team. When things get tough or the team is down, it’s crucial for the girls not to argue or become negative on the court. Coach Sobwicz also emphasized the importance of learning how to lose the right way, not taking it out on other teammates. “[We are] learning to grow together as opposed to growing apart, and just be one,” he said.
Coach Sobowicz mentioned that the team has a lot of strong players who are crucial to their success. He noted sophomore front line Chloe Delaire as one of the team’s strongest players. “The sky’s the limit for her if she can continue to grow as a person and as a volleyball player,” he said. He also acknowledges senior setter Co-captain Francesca Lamattina, senior libero Co-captain Alex Segal, and junior middle Co-captain Lola Peck. He explained that Lamattina’s position as a setter is new as of this year, but she always puts the team before herself. “That has given us a green light to be successful,” he said. “I could name everybody. The whole team has been good.”
One of the highlights from the girls season so far this year was their annual Dig Pink game on Friday Oct. 25. The girls faced a strong Miss Porter’s team and with the help of an amazing crowd, won 3-0. This was a huge win for their playoff hopes and it was also for an amazing cause.
On Saturday, Nov. 2, the team will head down to Cheshire Academy. Cheshire should be an easier game, one the Wyverns should win. Good luck to the team, we are all rooting for them to win a NEPSAC class B championship!
