By Elizabeth Hasko and Cami Reynolds, staff writers
Carrying on a seven year tradition, the Saegertown boys volleyball team will be traveling to the Bobcat Invitational at Northeastern High School in Manchester, Pa. on Friday, March 31. The tournament gets underway with the JV on Friday around 6 p.m, and the varsity kicking off the following morning at 8 a.m. It is the largest tournament in the state, with 40 varsity and 25 JV teams competing. Though the team’s performance does not count against their official record, it does count for their personal stats.
“It’s a great experience for team bonding,” said senior outside hitter Luke Dangel. The players get to spend time together before, during, and after the tournament, leading to a closer and more successful team. Whether it be the six hour bus ride to the event, midnight Sheetz runs, or just flat out doing their best competing, the trip fuses together team relationships.
Sophomore Raef Rhoades said, “I’m glad I get the chance to go down to Northeastern to spend time with my teammates because it helps us become closer and a better team.”
As the 19 athletes prepare to make the journey, junior Michael Chess said, “I think we will do okay. I can see ourselves in at least the quarterfinals. Every year it is fun and exciting because of the players I compete with. They play with so much heart and emotion.”