The season for Boys Volleyball will be starting very soon. Tryouts start on March 3 at the main gym during the spring season. Though the season ended for Taft Girls Volleyball in the fall, they still represent a great team for Taft Volleyball.
Ruel Abrian Ramirez is a recurring volleyball player for Taft. He is currently a junior. He has been playing volleyball ever since his freshman year in high school. Ramirez was a taller kid in elementary school, so he initially tried out for basketball and since it didn’t work, he decided to try out for volleyball instead during eighth grade.
He stated the reason he enjoys volleyball so much is because he loves the team chemistry that each game provides, and it’s a team sport where you have to rely on each other. “It’s a satisfying feeling to hit the ball. It gives me exhilaration and much more adrenaline throughout the game,” Ramirez stated.
Ramirez doesn’t mind doing volleyball in the future and will most likely participate in intramurals for college. Ever since playing with his team at Taft, he enjoyed the sport even more. “I appreciate how comfortable we are with one another and the dedication we had throughout previous games,” said Ramirez.
Zuri Gilbert, junior, is a recurring player on the Taft Girls Volleyball Team. She shared, “Everything started in eighth grade when I tried a volleyball club and ended up loving it. When summer came, I became even more passionate and joined a summer program, which made me want to try out for Taft. I’ve loved it ever since, and I don’t regret any of my decisions.”
She continued, “I really love the admiration I get when I make a good hit. It makes me want to be even better at what I’m doing.” Gilbert also added, “It doesn’t bother me if I make a mistake. The key is to keep going and never let it get to you.”
Pavel Rusev is one of the coaches of the Boys Volleyball team. Coaching can be challenging, but when asked if he enjoys what he does, Rusev shared his passion for the sport. He said, “I absolutely love what I do and wouldn’t change it for anything in the world. Volleyball has given me so much over the last 16 years, and I am grateful to continue creating memories and building meaningful connections year after year.”
Rusev explained, “My love for the game drove me to become a coach right after graduating from Taft High School. I wanted to be the kind of coach to my players that I wish I had when I was in their shoes. My goal is to inspire them, help them grow, and share my passion for the sport, all while guiding them to become the best versions of themselves, both as players and as people.”
Rusev emphasized the importance of balance. “I push my players as much as I can and challenge them to excel, but I also make sure to be supportive and motivational. I’m big on promoting sportsmanship, teamwork, and positivity, both on and off the court. I believe in fostering an environment where players not only improve their skills but also learn valuable life lessons along the way.”
Volleyball can be an exciting and dynamic sport that brings joy not only to the players but also to the coaches who guide and support them. It’s a game that many find both relaxing and satisfying, offering a unique blend of teamwork, strategy, and physical skill. One of the most remarkable aspects of volleyball is the strong bond it fosters among teammates, as success on the court requires seamless communication and trust. Coaches play an integral role, motivating players to reach their full potential and encouraging them to grow both individually and as a team.
As the sport continues to grow, eagerly anticipate seeing new teams step onto the court this year and next. The future of volleyball is bright, and many can’t wait to witness the incredible talent, passion, and sportsmanship that will emerge. Here’s to more thrilling matches and unforgettable moments in the seasons ahead!
