Vernon volleyball team reaches quarterfinals

VERNON — Success year after year has become a main component for the Vernon High School boy’s volleyball program-and the 2017 Vikings certainly disappoint with their collective achievements this spring.
Vernon had a winning overall record if 14-7 and for the 11th straight year qualified for the NJSIAA Sectional Tournament. This season, the Vikings advanced to the quarterfinal round of the NJSIAA North Group 1 Sectional Tournament where they were defeated by Lakeland.
In fact, the strong performance put forth by his players against second seeded Lakeland stands out as a memorable moment from this recently concluded season for veteran head coach Jeff DeYoung. Vernon, the No. 7 in the North Group 1 bracket topped 10th seed North Bergen 2-0 (25-6, 26-24 game scores) in the opening round.
“Two matches stand out for this season," DeYoung said. “The first was our rematch victory over Pope John on May 9. We were excited for the League rematch and game-planned accordingly. We were able to serve aggressively, have opportunities to slow down their primary attacks and our seniors showed crucial leadership in a three-set important power points toward State Tournament seeding.
“Our second standout match was could like be our State quarterfinal loss to Lakeland to conclude our season. This match stood out to me because while we were forced to alter our lineup due to injury, we played extremely well against a very good opponent and had opportunities to win or at least force a third set. Instead of going through the motions knowing we were not at full strength, we battled and grinded the entire match."
Senior leadership, as DeYoung noted above, was in ample supply this year.
“My seniors led by example the entire way, from start to finish," DeYoung said. “Senior co-captains Chris Ploch and Parker Shade could be counted on to lead on and off the court and were trusted to give feedback during matches if adjustments needed to be considered. As four-year varsity players, they earned that privilege.
“Also AJ Rodriguez and Ethan Kolonoski led by example-both provided a calm, steady demeanor and were open to adjustments as the season progressed. At times they were asked to do more and stay in the match longer due to tactics and personnel and they relished the opportunity."
Coach DeYoung took notice of those student-athletes on the roster who were always searching for ways to become more well-rounded on the court.
“Junior Ryan Eilinger’s defensive presence grew dramatically from the beginning to the end," DeYoung said. “He became a strong blocker and also a versatile hitter able to play every position up front if he had to. Not to be outdone, sophomore Andrew Lisa also showed the same characteristics.
“Freshman Nolan Shade gained valuable experience at different points this season, playing back row at the varsity level. As the only freshman in the entire program, his growth was slow and steady and gave us a boost during key matches early on in the season.’’
Not surprisingly, the Vikings will be charging hard toward further success in 2018.
“Easily the optimism comes from the returning players as they have the ability to carry on the tradition of working hard, playing smart and having fun," DeYoung said. "The challenge will be to continue to improve their game before the season starts.
“Our senior group will not be easy to replace in terms of experience and ability. But they have set the standard the returners should look to match and exceed. I hope as well that incoming freshmen will welcome the opportunity to join us and be part of something special."