The Mainsheet


Prep League titles and CIF playoffs in full fall focus

by EMILIE ALDEN and ELLA GOEDEMANS

Girls’ Volleyball

Armed with experience, upper-class talent and a strong work ethic, Dolphin girls’ volleyball has confidently spiked its way into the season, along with five other fall sports.

“This year is a special year, we’ve grown a lot from last year, and with our senior leadership and team synchrony we have a very good chance of a nice CIF run,” girls’ volleyball Coach Nicole Cordova said. The Dolphins won 11 of their first 18 matches.

Upperclassmen captains Alana Reyes, outside hitter, leading setter Ella Schneider and No. 1 outside hitter in kills and defensive digs, Sammy Hsu, are looking to bring the team to State playoffs through team companionship and continuous dedication.

“The team has made it a goal this year to improve bonding on and off the court. All of the girls are there for each other no matter what happens, and I think all of our hard work in practices and games is setting us up for the best season we’ve had in a long time,” Schneider said.

Cross Country

Senior captain Caleb Kim discussed the team’s work ethic and bonding: “I love cross country for the people. We all go through running up Academy Hill in 90-degree heat, so we really do get closer from our struggle.”

Cross country Coach George Ramos, now in his 27th year as head of the program, says, “In order to be a successful team and achieve the goals that we have, it takes hard work and team bonding. “When the team has a family atmosphere, team members will fight and suffer for each other in the toughest races while making some of their best friends along the way.” This sentiment is perfectly said in the team’s motto this year: “It’s a hill, get over it!”

Girls’ Tennis

The season started on a positive note, with hopes high for a

winning campaign. “I’m looking forward to getting a huge team win, and I will support the girls by always cheering and showing that I am there for everyone who plays,” freshman Greta Phillips said.

Senior Sophie Kaneshiro is working hard to improve this season in doubles: “I want to improve my confidence because although in rallies I can hit fine, when I play games I tense up because I’m afraid of making unforced errors.”

Boys’ Water Polo

With the departure of notable seniors Max Sweeney and Alec Baker, the team is looking to rebuild behind junior captain Owen Foldesy.

“I want to think about the game more strategically and less surface level, which will help in leading the team to the Prep League championship,” Foldesy said. The team’s biggest goal is to get to the State playoffs. Through hard work and dedication, Foldesy is confident that he and his teammates will be able to perform well.

Girls’ Golf

Off to a strong start, the team is working hard to improve its game. Captained by senior Susan Cho and freshman Jin Chung, the Dolphins have a sparkling 6-1 record.

Sophomore Rowena Lee is focused on refining her skills, saying, “My main goal is to improve my golf swings and to have fun with the girls on my team.”

Football

The football team has started strong with consecutive victories over Thacher School, 39-14 and Saint Joseph Academy of San Marcos, 42-24. The defense has been impressive so far, with 11 sacks, seven turnovers and two defensive touchdowns.

The squad has big goals of winning the Prep League and reaching the CIF playoffs. Besides seniors Tom Rosso and Max Polin, the Dolphins have been guided by the play of junior running back Chet Major and sophomore cornerback Michael Schnabel.