The Pumas have many hurdles to jump on the road to the playoffs, but they seem to be well on their way this far in the season. Although a few losses spot their records including a nail-biting game that ended in defeat against Desert Vista, the team has had more wins than losses and continues to remain optimistic. They beat Red Mountain, Higley, and Queen Creek, winning all three games 3-0, and recently scored a win over Brophy as well.

The sophomore-dominated team is using this new dynamic to their advantage. The younger players continue to invigorate, while the upperclassmen continue to inspire. This has helped them stay confident, strong, and organized.

The volleyball team overall has a strong track record, consistently making it to the playoffs over the last few years. Principal Dan Serrano shares confidence in the team’s abilities; “They generally do very well each year. They are a strong team.”

Though falling slightly in the ranks, the players are pulling themselves up, their tough schedule only making them stronger. The upper as well as underclassmen continue to learn and progress as the year advances.

A few injuries on the team have caused setbacks, but the boys are pushing past them. Head coach Brian Pomerantz comments, “There is time to smooth things out and get healthy.”

The Pumas are looking to improve consistently, and always try to find ways to better themselves as a whole. The team feels that they are playing very well, but continues to set the bar even higher for themselves each game. “We want to be playing our best in May – we need to find ways to be better every time we play in April,” adds Pomerantz.

It seems that the tide has already begun to turn in their favor, regaining steam after their recent victories. Senior Garrett Wagner explains, ”We’ve had our ups and downs, but mostly, it’s been a pretty good season. We’re getting better and better as time goes on, and getting more familiar with each other.” As their connection and ability to function as a team improves, so does their number of victories.

Sophomore Ryan Whitmire shares his experience this season, stating, “We’re doing very well, and it’s mostly due to team chemistry. From hanging out on the weekends to playing together, we really connect as friends and players and it makes us stronger as a team.” It seems that the best assets the Puma’s have are each other.

“This is our best chance of winning state,” Whitmire continues, “We want to make it past semifinals. We’ve made it to semifinals every year, so this year, we want to make it all the way.”

Although their path has been rocky, the Pumas are growing stronger with every stride, and continuing to uphold their successful reputation. With their constant improvement and unbreakable team chemistry, it looks as though they might just make it all the way.