The Oak Park High School boys volleyball team made its largest roster cuts in program history this offseason. Last year’s squad carried 22 players. This season the roster has been reduced to nearly half that size.

“Coming into this season after our overall win last season, we had some pretty big changes, which will help us this season,” outside hitter Ben Buchler said. “One of the biggest changes is that this year we took a lot less teams on varsity to make practices and tournaments easier to manage.”

Coaches and players alike acknowledge that this season may look different, but they believe the team’s depth and versatility will help them compete.

Team chemistry will also play a big role. With several new varsity players, the team will need to work on building trust and adjusting to each other’s styles of play. Still, players say the group feels close and that this connection will be important as the season goes on.

“I’m hoping to have a lot of fun as this is my first year playing beach volleyball, but also to perform well and win some tournaments for our school,” Buchler said.

The boys play in club teams during the offseason to work on their individual skills. Whether it’s a day of serving or practicing pinpoint passing, the players must independently grow to prepare for the season ahead. 

“Its a more competitive team making practices more efficient and the players on the team closer,” setter Asher Bennett added. 

As league play approaches, the team knows the season will come with its own hardships. Some challenges lie out of their control such as injuries and matchups. The players are confident they can put together another successful run. 

“We are ready to get first place and win our league championship,” Bennet said. 

The boys beach volleyball team is ready to bring the heat to the sand.