Taking down the net: Del Val volleyball’s season overview
December 12, 2022
The Delaware Valley Girls Volleyball team has finished an impressive season.
With a record of 18-10, the girls ended the season with their third South Group 1 Sectional title, as well as their second Skyland-Raritan Conference championship in a row.
However, the road to this success wasn’t easy. The players faced many challenges where they had to adjust their game and the way they played in order to achieve the win.
“After a couple weeks of playing, and getting to know everyone’s playing styles better, we realized we needed a change to the lineup,” senior captain Skylee Ohler said. “This made our connection on the court even stronger, and eventually led to our victories as a team.”
This adjustment benefited the team as the girls went 12-1 in their division, with their one loss being against Voorhees. That game went into three intense sets and ended with the team’s first loss within the conference. However, they were able to bounce back in their rematch and come home with a win. This game ended up being a favorite amongst the players.
“Losing for the first time in the conference put us all on edge,” Ohler said. “So our team chemistry the whole game was booming, and the win made it even more incredible.”
This adjustment worked as the girls won their third South Jersey Group 1 Sectional title in a row. They beat Point Pleasant in an intense three sets in order to get this win.
“I am so proud of these ladies for all their hard work this season,” coach Erin Fleming said. “Even though we had a tough start to this match, they fought through it and found their magic. It felt great to win in our home gym, but we are eager to see where the road takes us the rest of the tournament. Thanks to everyone who continues to show up and support this special team.”
The season ended on Nov. 9, where Del Val played at Franklin High School against Bogota, a repeat from last year. The game went to two sets, with Bogota getting the win. Although Del Val didn’t come out on top, the team still didn’t get any less recognition for the amazing season it had.
”I’m incredibly proud of our girls for coming back two years in a row,” coach Fleming said. “We have had most of our success the past three years. I’ve been hearing about [Bogota] since I was in high school, and we’re going to keep coming back and hopefully see them again.”
Next season will host some new experiences and players.
“I would tell all players to maintain an upbeat attitude on and off the court,” said Ohler. “It’s easy for the court momentum to fall apart, but it’s imperative to know how to come back as a team.”
Although the season has come to an end, the team has received quite a few impressive titles, and are looking forward to next season.