Vernon volleyball looks to be spoilers

VERNON — At this time of year many sports fans are concentrating on the vast array of outdoor activities such as baseball, softball, lacrosse, etc. But, one of the most action-packed and definitely high scoring events going on this spring is occurring inside gymnasiums.
For evidence that this happens to be true, one just needs to attend a Vernon High School boy’s volleyball match. The Vikings are continuing their winning ways this season.
In matches played through April 27, the Vikings had an overall record of 6-5. Last year, they finished with a mark of 13-7 and advanced to the NJSIAA North 1 Sectional Tournament quarterfinal round before eventual Sectional runner-up Lakeland. Fair Lawn won the North 1 title and lost to Southern Regional in the State Championship match.
Key players on the varsity roster for Vernon this spring include Ryan Eilinger (senior, outside hitter), Greg Wikiel (senior, right-side), Alex Heule (senior, middle blocker), Andrew Lisa (junior, outside hitter and setter) and Nolan Shade (sophomore, defensive specialist).
“Ryan and Andrew are solid leaders on our team," Vernon coach Jeff DeYoung said. “They have significant varsity experience and know the expectations and tradition of the program and are able to keep the team in the moment. They are reliable student-athletes and set high standards on the court and in the classroom."
Vernon competes in the West Jersey Volleyball League along with Jefferson, Bergen Charter, Harrison, Dover, Pope John and Lyndhurst. They have some substantial goals they’d like to achieve this season.
“Continue to qualify for the State Sectional Tournament while challenging for our division crown, increase our volleyball IQ by reading our opponent’s tendencies and tactics," DeYoung said. “Finally, we hope to have our younger, less experienced players get more comfortable with the speed and flow of the game while keeping their composure from start to finish.
“We could be a spoiler, I don’t see us rebuilding necessarily. Historically we have gotten better as the season progresses and I think that will be the case again. Dover, Harrison and Jefferson are off to quick starts and may continue that trend as the season progresses. If we can get some wins in our rematches with Dover and Jefferson, we could be right there as well."
The Viking have a road match scheduled at Millburn on May 10.