By Sasha Crowe
The Ponte Vedra High School boys volleyball team had a busy week last week, playing in two regular season games and a tournament over the weekend. On Tuesday, Apr. 18, the Sharks took a hard-fought loss to the Nease High School Panthers. However, they are both evenly matched teams, the Panthers won with a set score of 3-2. Freshman Thor Gyulai carried the team to a near victory on both offense and defense. As an all-around outside hitter, Thor rounded up 19 kills on the offense. With forty-six total attacks, Thor had a kill percentage of .217. On the defensive side, Thor had 18 digs, keeping the Sharks alive for two sets. “The team and I tried our hardest but could’ve played better against our rivals. Next time we face them the outcome will be different,” described Thor.
On Thursday, Apr. 20, the boys hosted their last regular season game against Global Outreach Charter Academy. Thursday was also senior night, recognizing the team’s one senior, Merritt Crowe. With a gym decorated with pictures of Merritt’s time with Ponte Vedra volleyball, the team’s second ever senior night was a memorable success. Merritt has volunteered with the girls volleyball team for four years as the ‘Team Manager’. He also played a key role in creating the boys volleyball program two years ago. “I am honored to be recognized as the only senior this year and can’t wait for what lies ahead,” stated Merritt. After senior recognition, The Sharks swept the Kodiaks with scores of 25-12, 25-8, and 27-25. The last set was a nail-biter as Ponte Vedra had a new string in for a more even match-up. The Sharks switched up their lineup, having middle blocker Hunter Calamari play setter. Even as setting, Huner led the team with eight kills.
Over the weekend, the boys played in a day tournament against Lake Highland Prep and St. Augustine High School. Ponte Vedra swept the day tournament without dropping a single set. They defeated Lake Highland Prep with scores of 25-20 and 25-17. Sophomore Nick Peters was leading the team to victory with seven kills. To add, the Sharks beat the St. Augustine Yellow Jackets 25-15 and 25-14, making their record 9-2. The boys took gold last weekend and hope to do the same as they head into districts.
