When fans hear of Delaware Valley Regional High School athletics, their minds go to wrestling, but is that truly Del Val’s legacy?
Over the past few years, hundreds of girls have stepped into the Hutch gym hoping for the chance to compete on Del Val’s volleyball team, coached by Dr. Erin Green. The tryout process is “rigorous and cut throat,” and many girls are turned away while trying for spots on the freshman, junior varsity and varsity teams.
Del Val volleyball didn’t earn its success out of nowhere, as many factors have gone into fostering a powerhouse team.
“After two or three [years of success], it shows that this will stick around,” Green said. “We do a youth camp and youth night. Trying to keep in that tradition and keep improving the team every year, whether it’s things we do in the community or at school, just trying to keep that momentum going.”
This year was no different from the rest. On Nov. 13, volleyball wrapped up its season with a close loss to Raritan High School, but that doesn’t take away from Del Val’s record breaking season.
“You obviously can’t talk about the team without talking about Abbey Bivona,” Green said.
When attending a Del Val volleyball game, it’s impossible to miss number nine dominating the court. This season, senior Abbey Bivona has broken several records at Del Val, including the career kills (690), season kills (278) and career blocks (184) records.
“I feel less pressure on having to do good or play a certain way, since it’s my senior season,” Bivona said. “Trying to enjoy it and not being afraid to make a mistake, just playing the best I could without being hesitant, has made my game stronger in that way.”
Bivona isn’t the only one breaking records. Junior Maggie Simpson has achieved most career (863) and season assists (419) in the 2024-2025 season. This season wouldn’t be possible, however, without a full team effort.
“Everyone knows you’re only as good as the weakest player on the bench,” Green said.
Bivona considers the team a “family” and that has contributed to the team’s successes through the years. The strong connection these girls have has pushed them through tough times in the season and through hard games. This strong positivity that flows through the team isn’t just from the players, but Coach Green as well.
“I think she really shows she cares about us outside the sport, which means a lot, so that it doesn’t feel like our whole lives revolve around the sport during that season,” Bivona said. “She really prioritizes team bonding and is a really sweet and awesome coach. She makes the sport less stressful and more enjoyable.”
Green prioritizes those values, and after loses, she chooses to reflect on their success instead, keeping morale up. Before games, these pep talks are what put the girls in the right head space.
“Reminding them [the players] of the journey and what they are capable of, I try to keep it as positive as possible,” Green said.
This season was a whirlwind of success and has brought volleyball to the top of Del Val athletics. More students, as well as community members, show up to cheer the girls on while they achieve what many only dream of.
With the season coming to close, Green is excited to “see people finally showing up for us” and is looking forward to see how next year’s team comes together and who steps up.
