After many years of anticipation, boys volleyball has finally arrived at Archbishop Riordan High School and is in full swing. Led by head coach Leo Fung and assistant Coaches Ella and Mateo, the team has been thriving underhis direction.

“It has been amazing coaching this team. I was very fortunate to have athletes who already know how to play. The challenge has been getting everyone on the same page and having them grow as a group since it is the first year for Riordan to have a boys volleyball team. I could not have asked for a better group of guys,” said Coach Fung.

Over 40 students tried out for the team with only 16 making it. A wide range of students coming from all different backgrounds, even including players from other countries, make up this team.

“For me, being part of the first-ever boys volleyball team at Riordan is very special and exciting, and I feel honored to come from another country to represent this school in this sport,” said Hugo Lobato ’27, an international student from Spain.

Team captains include Karlo Manglona ’25, Nathan Liang ’27, and Genesis Lakalaka ’28. As team captains, they play a big role in setting the future of this program.

“The main goal is to just put Riordan men’s volleyball on the map. Because we cannot play in playoffs, we are simply going out there with the goal of making sure these teams know who we are,” said Manglona.

As team captains, they also oversee growth and improvement within the team. Liang said, “One thing that makes our team unique is our mentality. We have so many first-year players that are eager to learn and grow.”

He continued, “Their enthusiasm and willingness to improve creates a positive, hard- working environment that pushes everyone to be better.”

The team started the season 0-4 but have since improved their record to 9 wins and 11 losses. Eventually, the team wants to join the WCAL league.

The boys volleyball team seems to have a bright future ahead of them and will hope to have their continued success in the rest of their season.