Pittsburg High School's boys' volleyball team is looking strong and determined this season. With a mix of experienced and new players, Coach Savannah O'Neal believes that the team has all the ingredients for a successful season. As they aim to make it to the postseason and make a deeper run this time, the Pirates have their sights set on teamwork, chemistry, and constant improvement.
Looking back at last season, the team was able to qualify for the NCS but was eliminated in the first round. This year, the Pirates are determined to make it back to the postseason and potentially go beyond. Coach O'Neal believes that the key to success lies in coming together as a team and combining each player's skills on and off the court.
One of the strengths of this year's team is the return of a core group of players who have dedicated their offseason to improving as individual athletes and team players. They have also played club volleyball in preparation for the upcoming season. This experience and dedication will undoubtedly make an immediate impact on the team's performance.
In terms of team captains, Coach O'Neal looks for qualities such as selflessness and the ability to guide the team both on and off the court. While many experienced players could potentially take on this role, the coach believes that captains are not something that can be battled for but must be earned through actions.
The team's schedule is jam-packed this year, with three tournaments scheduled, which is more than they have ever had in previous seasons. Coach O'Neal is excited about competing in the 2025 Boys Stockton Classic, as it will be the team's first time attending. This challenging schedule will test the team's mental strength, making it an important aspect of the game for the Pirates.
Coach O'Neal's coaching style has evolved over the years, as she aims to make a positive impact on each player both on and off the court. Her goal is to teach valuable life lessons, not just how to play a sport. She also prides her program on being respectful, regardless of the outcome or score. This positivity has been noticed by other teams who have requested to reschedule games just to play against Pittsburg.
The team's strengths lie in their love for working together and playing for each other. They have a deep bond that translates into their gameplay, making them a strong unit on the court. However, their weakness this season will be filling key positions that were left vacant due to graduating players. Coach O'Neal is confident that with the drive and determination of this team, they will overcome any obstacles and strive for success.
The coach's philosophy is centered on the fact that her players are student-athletes, with academics always taking precedence over sports. She closely monitors their grades and has set up a system where they are responsible for a weekly grade check and mandatory study hall. If a player's grades do not meet the coach's standards, they are not allowed to practice until they catch up on all their assignments.
This focus on academics has also helped prepare players who may want to continue playing volleyball in college. As the Pirates gear up for the season, Coach O'Neal has a special message for the fans and supporters. She thanks them for their constant support and dedication to the team, especially considering that boys' volleyball is still a growing sport and may not receive as much recognition as other sports.
She also thanks those who have been by her side since she started coaching the team, and those who will join the journey this season. With their support, the Pirates will undoubtedly have another successful season. In conclusion, the Pittsburg High School boys' volleyball team is ready to take on the challenges that lie ahead this season.
With a mix of experienced and new players, a strong focus on teamwork and chemistry, and a determined and supportive coach, they have all the ingredients for a successful season. Fans and supporters can expect to see an exciting and competitive team striving for not only athletic success but also personal growth and development.
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