GIRLS VOLLEYBALL

“The team has had bumps along the road; however, the hope is to continue to get small victories so that we can start to earn larger victories later.”- Coach Kaleb Krebs

After a successful 2022 season, the Girls’ Volleyball team has undergone many changes. One of these changes comes in the form of a new coaching staff. Kaleb Krebs is the new Head Coach, while Christian Marini Assistant and Junior Varsity Coach.

Coach Krebs previously helped coach the Boys’ Volleyball team, but coaching the Girls’ Volleyball team has been a different experience, especially in how the girls listen more attentively. Coach Krebs said, “They hear what you say the first time rather than the boys who have to have directions repeated multiple times.” Kaleb also added that the girls are more cheerful because “They come up with so many different and unique chants to try and motivate their team.”

Change didn’t only come in the form of coaches though. The varsity team has also had to deal with the loss of six seniors who graduated. This year’s team features six seniors, three juniors, fourteen sophomores, and seven freshmen. 

The girls have been met with many obstacles that come with having a young team and new coaches. When talking to the players about the biggest challenge they have faced this year, many answered that it was learning a new rotation. 

Senior Co-Captain Sabrina George stated, “Adjusting to different line-ups and adjusting to new coaches who coach differently than the ones we have had in the past has been the biggest challenge. Also, learning to run a 6-2 instead of a 5-1 has been different for us because it means we have a setter in back row and three hitters at all times.”

Coach Krebs described the challenge of trying to balance winning and getting the young players experience; he explained that there are only nine upperclassmen out of 30 players. He stated, “The team has had bumps along the road; however, the hope is to continue to get small victories so that we can start to earn larger victories later. Rome was not built in a day, so sticking to fundamentals and mentality will help us.” 

The girls had a rough start to the season by going 3-5, but they have not given up and are trying to improve. When asked about the upset against Steel Valley early in the season, Co-Captain George said, “I think the loss has forced us to work harder and realize that nothing will just be given to us.” 

In tough times like these, every team needs a leader. With only nine upperclassmen on the team, the seniors have tried to show leadership. Senior Alayna Malloy noted, “On the court, I definitely try to make my voice heard; being loud on the court, keeping the energy up, and staying positive even if we are losing.” Co-Captain Ella Kicinski also explained how as a leader she tries to keep her teammates excited during games because having energy on the court can make or break a game. 

Coach Krebs and Coach Marini try to make practice fun while still developing the team. No matter what the obstacle is, it is important to have fun while playing. 

Coach Krebs said, “I believe in making teachable moments fun because when you enjoy what you do, you want to learn more from it.” He also talked about how it is crucial for him as a coach to listen to what the players have to say. 

When asked about his plan for the future of Seton LaSalle’s Girls’ Volleyball Program, Coach Krebs talked about focusing on speed, power, and agility. He can’t wait to build off this season by focusing more on weight training and conditioning. According to Coach Krebs, working on these key areas and open gyms will lead to more successful seasons in the future.