After being state champions in 2022 and making it to the final four in 2023, the Crusaders boys volleyball program now has a reputation to uphold. As spring rolls around, and practice and tryouts start for the boys, we can expect great things from them for the upcoming season.
The boys lost three seniors last year: Luke Zelnis, Clayton Bergkoetter, and Seth Skiljan. All of them were very important parts of the team.
“Losing three seniors is always big, especially when they were as influential as they were. Losing three great leaders always hurts, but that just means people need to step up and take leadership.“ sophomore Landon Wright said
Wright, in only his second year at St.Dominic, has seemed to find a connection with this team and the boys, even after only having one season with them.
“I’m very excited to see how this team plays together. We have a lot of new guys and a younger team with only one senior. I’m looking forward to seeing how they accept the change from last year.“ Wright said.
The excitement goes all around. Assistant coach Lyn Zelnis is looking forward to this season as well.
“Boy’s volleyball is always so much fun, and the boys are awesome to work with. Lots of laughs and memories are made each season.“ Zelnis said.
With a record of 23-9 for the 22-23 season, and 31-3 for the 21-22 season, the boys know how to win a game and plan to continue to do so this season.
“Every season is different. The fact that our program has made a name for itself the past couple years (state champs 2022, final four 2023) means that other programs respect us now. This young team has experience going deep into the postseason, so I think that will make them confident from the start,“ Zelins said.
The team has many focus points this season to continue to uphold the name they have set. The boys definitely have a strong plan to go far this season.
“I’d say the main goal this year is to make it to the final four. We’ve been there two years in a row, and I don’t see why we can’t make it to three.” Wright said.
“Ball control, aggressive serving, and solidifying our offense will be some of our main focus areas. Attitude, communication, and effort. . . With those three controllable things, we will absolutely meet our goals.” Zelins said.
This is definitely a team you will want to follow this season. The boys will start their season on March 18th with a game against Seckman Senior High School. Make sure to be there and follow this team as they take on another season.
