Season Recap: Grade 7 and 8 Volleyball

The Grade 7 and 8 Volleyball Team began the season with a wide range of experience, from players with club backgrounds to those stepping onto the court for the first time. From the start, the team focused on developing consistency in serving and passing, learning new offensive and defensive systems, and strengthening communication and mental resiliency.

Despite beginning the year without an experienced setter, several players rose to the challenge and embraced the demanding position, showing tremendous hustle and growth. Throughout the season, the team focused on improving fundamental skills like serving and serve receive, and their work paid off. When the Gryphons served well, they played their best volleyball, staying competitive in long rallies and strategically placing balls in deep corners.

As the season progressed, the team’s confidence and chemistry grew. Players became more aggressive at the net and mentally tougher in tight matches, demonstrating real belief in themselves and each other. Their hard work paid off with a strong second-place finish in the PAAC Conference Tournament, falling just short in a hard-fought 1–2 loss to Park Tudor.

“All players leveled up their skills and consistency this season,” said Head Coach Christy Go. “They learned to believe in themselves and to play as one team, and I’m incredibly proud of their growth.”

Players also reflected on their own development throughout the season.

“My biggest goal coming into this season was to improve my overhand serve,” said Grade 7 player Sophia Tori. “My biggest accomplishment this year was improving my overhand serve and spiking.”

Grade 8 player Stephanie Chen added, “My biggest goals this season were to improve my passing and setting skills. My biggest challenge was trying out the setter position when I had never played that position before.”

Congratulations to the team on an impressive season of growth, teamwork, and perseverance, both on and off the court.