The sixth/seventh-grade boys volleyball team recently completed their most successful season, finishing as co-champs of their conference and finishing second in the conference tournament.
The team consisted of 10 players, sixth graders Jimmy Shortall, Roberto Marquez, and Di’Mari Willaby, and seventh graders Justin Abina, Tajonn Johnson, Demante Sanni-Fields, Raudel Magallanes, Marquel Saleek, Dominic Robinson (captain) and Hamza Hodzic (captain).
“They went into this season completely focused and on a mission,” coach Joanna Terracciano said in District 91’s press release. “We are leaving the LTESAC [conference] and wanted to leave a lasting impression. We knew it was going to be a challenge having only three returners from last year. But no matter the obstacles, they continued to fight.” The team finished 11-1 in regular season earning them co-conference champions with Park Jr. High. They went into the conference tournament with their eyes set on bringing home the trophy. Though they lost in the finals to Park Jr. High, they brought home the second-place trophy, the first trophy for a sixth/seventh-grade team in any sport in Forest Park Middle School history.
Co-captain Hamza Hodzic said, “This season was a long battle. No matter what was going on, we always supported each other. It was heartbreaking to take second, but we’re looking forward to next year.”
Co-captain Dominic Robinson added, “We had a good season. Everybody participated and played well. We had some good and bad games, but in the end, we played as a team and fought to the very end.”
Marquel Saleek said, “A highlight from the season was beating Park at home, clinching the conference championship. Everyone stepped up and did their job. It was great winning in two games.”
“We are leaving the LTESAC feeling good,” said Terracciano. “Goals were accomplished, and we look forward to next year’s conference [Salt Creek Valley]. I couldn’t be more proud of this team.”
Staff
