The reigning champion Cavaliers have started off their season on the right foot. After an opening game loss to Pinkerton, HB volleyball returned to their winning ways, taking three of their last four contests. With a record of 8-2 HB is staying competitive, sitting in third place in the thirteen team Division I.

Hollis Brookline does face two major challenges in the goal for a top seed. Timberlane and Pinkerton are both powerhouses, with records of 14-0 and 12-1, respectively. After that, the division drops off, and the rest of the teams appear much more evenly matched. The Cavaliers are in the upper tier of teams, but these two opponents will certainly make for a challenge in the quest for another title. Hollis Brookline traveled to Timberlane on May 17, suffering a tough loss, and will soon host Pinkerton on May 19. “We lost to Pinkerton earlier in the year, but it was a really off night. We have the potential to beat both teams,” said Hayden Kubishta ‘17.

Momentum is on the Cavaliers’ side. They won seven in a row before Wednesday’s matchup, losing only two sets in that span. “We’re really focused on playing our own game,” said Felix Yang ‘19. The team is using their recent success to iron out any kinks they have in their game, one of which being communication on the court. “Last year we were a very outspoken team,” said Kubishta. “This year we’re more quiet on the court. It’s been an adjustment, but it’s something we’re getting better with.”

The volleyball team has their eye on success, and they have a plan for how to get there. Everyone emphasized playing HB’s brand of volleyball. “If we play our brand of volleyball then we can beat anyone,” said Mike Moscatelli ‘19. This style of play has developed as the season has gone on, and the team believes it was their key to success on their win streak.

At the end of the day, they’re looking to continue the success and win another title. “We’ve all bought in[to the system] and want to do anything to get a banner on the wall,” said Moscatelli.