Vikings compile 9-12 record

The Vernon Township High School boys volleyball team concluded its season last week with an overall record of 9-12 and tied for third place in its division with a 7-5 mark.

Seniors Josh Jean and Caden Krzyzak were the team captains.

“Both of them have the respect of the team and have worked to improve their overall game throughout the season,’’ said veteran head coach Jeff DeYoung.

“Josh has taken on a new position this year on the court to help us be as successful as possible. Caden’s all-year experience has brought some new drills and content into the gym for us to implement into practices.’’

Both acquired some noteworthy statistics on the court.

“In 19 matches (through May 22), Josh has 339 assists (fifth in the Northwest Jersey Athletic Conference), 98 digs, 38 kills, 16 blocks and 12 aces,’’ DeYoung said. “In 19 matches, Caden has 121 kills (ninth in the NJAC), 75 digs, 21 blocks (seventh in the NJAC) and 28 aces (fifth in the NJAC).’’

The captains’ improvements this season have been impressive as well..

“We have a new look compared to last year’s team and success and that has come with its expected growing pains,” the coach said. “They have worked on adapting and taking on additional and supporting roles in our offense.

“Both captains have a willingness to improve and get better as well as make adjustments during the match to help the team be successful. They also give each other and their teammates feedback as needed to help everyone improve. They hold each other and everyone else accountable.”

Jean and Krzyzak are academic standouts as well. “They work hard in the classroom on a daily basis and take time out of their day to take care of their academic responsibilities as needed,” DeYoung said.

Other players contributed to the team this season.

“Junior Victor Silva has 140 kills (eighth in the NJAC), 115 digs, 42 aces (first in the NJAC),’’ DeYoung said. “Senior Cyrus Cruz has emerged over his career to be an effective and reliable all-round player, with 70 kills (third on the team), 123 digs (ninth in the NJAC) and 14 aces.

“Junior Mike VanBenschoten has also embraced a larger role in the court due to his commitment to off-season work, adding 50 kills (fourth on the team), 15 aces (fourth on the team), and 12 blocks (third on the team).

“We moved down from (NJSIAA) North Group 2 to Group 1, so we’re working on being more consistent with our overall play as we get ready for postseason action,’’ the coach added.

The Vikings reached the semifinal round of the NJAC Tournament, losing to Morristown, 2-0, on May 14.

Seeded 13th, the team lost to fourth seed Weehawken, 2-1, in the first round of the New Jersey State Interscholastic Athletic Association (NJSIAA) North Jersey, Group 1 tournament May 28.