Saints' first numbers look good

Staff

Published Tuesday, August 30, 2005

The Nansemond-Suffolk Academy boys' volleyball is entering its second decade, and going strictly by the numbers, the Saints volleyball program has never been stronger.

With 14 players turning out on the first day of practice on Monday, head coach Randolph Davis said, "I'm encouraged by the turnout and by who is turning out."

The turnout was the largest in the program's history, according to Davis.

Numbers and results during the season, are two completely different measuring sticks however, and despite the high interest to start the season, only a handful of guys are returning from last year.

Brandon Whedbee and Zach Irby are returning seniors, and Matt Hamlet and Sterling Taylor are now returning juniors from last year's squad that lost six seniors.

"Newcomers" Ryan Beale and Bennett Bynum have played on the team in previous seasons, but neither did last year.

Hamlet earned an All-TCIS Honorable Mention honor last fall, and also stars on the basketball floor and baseball diamond, so his athleticism fits right in with the main strength of the team.

Whedbee will be an important team leader, according to Davis. He has a good knowledge of the game, but missed all except the last few matches of last season due to injury.

"We'll probably do a lot better than last year because we have more athletes this year," said Hamlet, referring to some of the volleyball rookies who have previously been on the football, soccer or basketball teams.

"It's going to be really fun," said Hamlet about the attitude and potential ability of the team.

Despite not beginning practice until Monday, the Saints have some time before the season starts.

This is beneficial according to Davis, who said, "As they learn the game that will be the key for this team."

NSA starts it schedule at Walsingham Academy on Tuesday, Sept. 13 and the Saints' first home match comes a week later versus Norfolk Collegiate.

andrew.giermak@suffolknewsherald.com

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