As the leaves begin to change and the air grows cooler, Groton students can find the basketball courts covered with an unfamiliar yellow and blue colored ball. What could it be? Volleyball! A sport that began at Groton as only an FSA has evolved into one of the strongest teams on campus.
Last year marked the team’s most successful season since its founding in 2017. Led by captains Alicia Guo ’24, Daisy Adinkrah ’24, and Tyra Montan ’24, GVVB enjoyed their first winning season at 8-5, punching their ticket to the NEPSAC playoffs. Now, the girls are looking to build off of this as they chase a return to the tournament under new leadership, this time captained by Anjanette Lin ’25, Caiyu Yang ’25, and Sophia Leng ’26. They have started right where they left with an impressive 7-1 record, including going undefeated against ISL competition. With critical upcoming matches against other schools, the team hopes to continue their winning habits through unity and positive attitudes.
Caiyu said, “I am always thrilled for the volleyball season because I enjoy the bonding between me and my teammates. As we locked down several wins this year, I feel like the team has never looked so good.”
Although GVVB is hoping to replicate much of their success of last season, they will have to do it without former head coach Jennifer Kane. Since her departure, former assistant coach Celene Ibrahim has taken over the position for Coach Kane. Dr. Ibrahim has been with the team since 2022 and is highly regarded amongst her players for her easy-going nature and commitment to the game. She has transitioned seamlessly into her new role, embracing her leadership position with a constant smile. Marissa Bunnewith, a former collegiate volleyball player at the College of Saint Rose, is stepping in to fill the vacant assistant coach position. Her knowledge of volleyball and her nutritional background make her a valuable addition to the group.
Coach Marissa said, “I am so glad to get to know and work with this group of girls this year. It is truly a pleasure to see them grow in various aspects every single day.”
With the rapid growth of Groton’s volleyball program, the school has decided to invest further in its equipment. New this year is the Sports Attack Serving Machine. The machine does exactly as the name suggests, serving to players in a game-like manner. This helps them prepare better for games and exposes them to unique serves, allowing them to build strategies around the style of their opponents. This is undoubtedly a huge advantage, showing Groton’s confidence in the team yet again.
So, while most teams are outside this fall, don’t forget to venture over to the gym. The environment is sure to be spirited and exciting, truly representing what it means to be a Zebra.