From the end of the 2020 season to preseason this year, the St. Dominic boys volleyball program has continued to improve and grow. After all the hard work and hours spent in the gym, our Crusader boys are looking forward to having the successful season they deserve. 

This upcoming season should be one to remember for the team. Last year did not end the way they wanted, but this year is looking like it will be different. With an abundance of players in different grade levels and positions, the skill in the program is through the roof. 

“I think this year is already so different because of the belief that we can really win State. Last year, we knew we could go far, but we made some mistakes in the postseason and lost in sectionals. This year, I think we are more of a threat because Zach Carff has gotten so unbelievably good in just a short time, and me and Luke [Zelnis] are both on top club teams. I just feel that this year is our year,” sophomore varsity player Noah Schuessler said. 

Having multiple boys who play for select clubs like High Performance St. Louis will really set St. Dominic apart from other schools. The Crusader boys put in so much effort during the offseason to stay in shape and prepare for the upcoming season. Keeping up with fitness and conditioning during the off-season is crucial for the success they strive to achieve in the upcoming season. 

“Especially in club ball we have all put in so much effort to get better, and I have seen those results in nearly everyone. We have all put in a lot of work this off-season that I already think we will be just as good as we were when we ended last year,” Schuessler said.

As the season is almost upon them, excitement is building among not only the players, but the coaches as well. The program’s primary focus has been improving and is ready to adapt to the new season. 

“Last year was spent trying to convince ourselves we could accomplish big goals, but going into this season, we are better prepared to execute our goals,” varsity Head Coach Maggie Allen said. 

After constantly working out, the team’s stamina and mindset will be ready for the tough schedule ahead. The boys’ volleyball team is now looking for an opportunity to prove they deserve a State title, and their future is already looking bright.