![At a group practice, sophomore Layla Gutierrez sings, while seniors Armando Gutierrez and Jaden Cerna play the electric bass and guitar. “It’s cool being in a band with [my sister], but though we’re related, sometimes our ideas in the creative process differ and cause some conflicts,” Armando said. (@hopelesssamaritanband)](https://alisaltrojantribune.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/067cae3d6e7e8d0fd59cd886c8c689dbc703ed15-14-1033x1200.jpg)
Last season, the boys’ volleyball team finished third in the Gabilan Division, posted a 13-9 overall record, and advanced to the CCS D1 playoffs. Their postseason ended in the first round against Henry M. Gunn, 1-3. “The returning players have worked to be placed in the top league,” Coach Pablo Jr. Rico said. “Our goal is to remain at the top.” This year, the team welcomed Rico as the new Varsity Head Coach, after he previously led the JV team. Rico has coached boys’ volleyball at Alisal since 2017.
This year’s varsity volleyball roster features nine players: returning seniors Angel Mejia, Jatniel Mata, Jomax Mendoza, Leonardo Nava, and Leonel Osorio, along with junior Joshua Rojas. New additions include seniors Hector Politron and Jose Ruiz, and sophomore Jorge Ixta. Rico described the team as fun, dedicated, and hardworking. For the third consecutive year, Mejia serves as team captain. “He has proven to be a force on the court and shows up for his team,” Rico said. “We believe he has what it takes to lead the team to a league victory.”
The team’s greatest asset is their strong chemistry and close-knit bond. “Even with the new players, our chemistry is solid all around,” Mendoza said. “On the court, this allows us to communicate effectively and play as a unit.”
The players recognize that improving their mentality is essential. With last season’s top hitters lost to graduation, the team faces a tough challenge competing in the Gabilan Division. Only three players have been on varsity for four years, leaving the rest of the roster relatively new to the sport or to the demands of varsity play. “Some people are gradually developing their skills and learning their roles,” Mejia said. Still, the team is determined to learn and compete. “It’s normal for us to struggle when we’re behind, but shaking off mistakes is key to moving forward and winning the next point,” Rico said.
Through eight games the team was 5-3 overall and 2-1 in league. Despite having a rough preseason, Rico wants the boys to put up a fight in each game, and come out with the win. “We have capable players,” Mata said. “We just have to work as a team to push ourselves and get the best out of each other.” With both new boys and coaches, there is a lot of hard work ahead. “We’re genuinely committed to proving that we have what it takes to remain among the top contenders in volleyball,” Rico said.
