The 2026 season has begun for boys’ volleyball, with their second game being against Westchester Enriched Sciences Magnet High School. The Federalist connected with the varsity players as they warmed up for their game inside the main gym on Thursday.
The team expressed their pre-game preparation to secure a victory against the opposing team. SAS Senior Johan Cortez revealed his excitement before the game, emphasizing his outlook on this year’s new season.
“I think coming off two championship wins, with the past two varsity teams,” he said. “I feel good.”
He described his pre-game routines. “I’m very superstitious so before a game, I always touch the corner endline of the court,” Johan said.
In the hot, humid gym, another player from the varsity team, AMPA Senior Xavier Smith, expressed the difficulties of playing inside the gym with no air conditioning.
“You get very sweaty… it’s not fair that they are installing one after I graduate.” Though, he added, “It is a good way to practice and help us for each and every game.”
Both teams demonstrated sportsmanship when warming up for their game, practicing skills together and creating a comfortable environment for all. In the end, Hamilton brought the victory, winning 3-0 against Westchester. They will be playing University High School today.
