As the boys volleyball season approaches, the Beach District is primed for an exciting competition. Defending state champion Kellam High School begins the season at the top of the rankings despite significant player losses. The team, which claimed the Class 6 state title last year, will look to new stars to maintain its momentum.
Kellam, led by standout players Joel Eanes and Austin Makovec, now faces the challenge of replacing six seniors who graduated, including both Eanes and Makovec. Nevertheless, the Knights demonstrated their prowess last weekend by sweeping the preseason jamboree at Great Bridge, solidifying their position as the team to beat.
In the running for the top spots this season, First Colonial High School returns with a strong roster of 16 players. Among them is first-team All-Tidewater selection Bo Sawyer, along with kill specialist Zia Peterson. The Patriots will begin the season ranked second. Kempsville High School, led by returning player Wyatt Strawbridge, secures the third position in the rankings.
Peninsula District Teams Aim for Recognition
The Peninsula District is also gearing up for a competitive season. Last year, the top four teams achieved an impressive out-of-district record of 11-5, including successes in the state playoffs. Leading the charge is Heritage High School, which aims to strengthen its position among the elite teams in the Hampton Roads area. The Hurricanes, along with Denbigh High School, qualified for the Class 4 Tournament last season, with Heritage ultimately capturing the East Regional title after defeating Churchland in the regional final.
The private schools are also looking to make their mark this season. Catholic High School, with a record of 8-4 last year, was the only private institution to secure a place in the 757Teamz Top 15 rankings. The Tidewater Conference of Independent Schools may be poised to challenge for a spot in the rankings this year.
Key Players to Watch
Several players will be crucial in the upcoming season. Andrew Burke from Grassfield High School, a senior outside hitter, led his team last year with 205 kills and 45 aces, earning first-team all-region and second-team all-state honors. Another player to keep an eye on is Marcus Dozier from Heritage, who recorded over 240 kills last season and was named the reigning region player of the year.
Additionally, Bo Sawyer of First Colonial, who led his team with 376 kills, is expected to be a significant contributor once again. Gabe Sol, a senior middle blocker from Granby High School, will step into a leadership role following the graduation of his teammate AJ Angeles. Finally, Wyatt Strawbridge, the senior setter from Kempsville, tallied impressive stats last season, including 186 kills and 289 assists.
The preseason jamboree showcased the talent among the teams, with Kellam achieving an impressive 4-0 record and winning all eight sets. As the season unfolds, players and teams will aim to establish themselves as leaders in this highly competitive landscape.
The rankings are as follows:
1. Kellam (28-1 last season) – Despite losing key players, the Knights remain a formidable force with junior Dylan Calkins and the Pyka brothers, Nathan and Bennett, forming a strong core.
2. Kempsville (23-4) – Led by Wyatt Strawbridge, the Chiefs are supported by junior Trent Beeson, who had 175 kills last season.
3. First Colonial (20-4) – With 16 returning players and Bo Sawyer at the helm, the Patriots are eager to reclaim their spot.
4. Granby (25-3) – Coach Michelle Neaves returns a solid team, including Gabe Sol and senior setter Will Findlay.
5. Heritage (18-6) – Under coach Nehemiah Carter, the Hurricanes have a strong chance to advance further this season.
6. Kecoughtan (19-2) – The defending Peninsula District champions look to challenge Heritage with key players like Gavin Holbrooks.
7. Grassfield (15-6) – Along with Andrew Burke, the Grizzlies have five returning players from last season.
8. Warwick (16-7) – The Raiders aim to be competitive in the Peninsula District this season.
9. Maury (17-6) – They are a strong contender for Eastern District supremacy.
10. Menchville (18-4) – The Monarchs hope to make a significant impact in Class 5.
11. Hickory (14-7) – The Hawks surprised many with a strong showing at the jamboree.
12. Western Branch (16-6) – Senior players like Elijah Quintana will be key to their success.
13. Great Bridge (13-10) – The team aims to build on their performance from last season.
14. Indian River (13-11) – They made a notable run in the region semifinals last year.
15. Princess Anne (17-8) – The Cavaliers face challenges after losing many starters from last season.
As the season progresses, all eyes will be on these teams and players as they strive for success in the highly competitive landscape of boys volleyball.