Ryan Cederquist/Vail Daly
In its first two seasons, Vail Christian's boys volleyball program finished 3-7 and 7-9. Head coach James Scott believes his third year will be his best yet.
“(We're) going to start stronger than we've had in previous seasons,” he said.
What is his main reason for optimism? Improved chemical reactions.
“We have a number of returning players that we have worked with over the past two years and have taken the initiative in the offseason to gain additional experience,” Coach Scott said. “That experience has led to stronger communication and trust in each other, which is reflected in our level of play.”
Vail Christian opens the season Saturday against DSST:Conservatory Green. All 10 teams in the Confluence League are Front Range schools except for the Saints.
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“The league is getting better, but I believe we can sit at the top this season,'' Scott said. “We are still a young program. We have a lot to learn and accomplish. Our success will be measured by growth.”
Scott said he is curious to see how his team fares against all of its conference opponents, especially Devlin and Gateway. The Jaguars topped the Confluence standings with a 9-0 record, dropping only two sets in league play all season.
“They are a high-energy team and have made incredible strides in their level of play,” Scott said.
The Saints' four returning starters – Mauricio Terrazas, Keegan Chalberg, James Petersmayer and Ian Salyer – set the tone for practice this winter and into the spring.
“(They) demand more from each other and their teammates,” Scott said. “We hope they will unlock our potential this season by honoring our culture and inspiring their fellow athletes to do the same.”
Scott also said the new members of the team will spur the program's continued growth into the future.
“The pieces are there to help them meet and maybe even exceed their goals,” he said. “I look forward to sharing in their success and believe their efforts will yield exceptional results.”
