Volleyball Jamboree

The CYO boys (indoor) volleyball season began with a Jamboree at All Saints (AS). This event had always been sponsored by All Saints. It took a short hiatus for the last 3 years when AS renovated their gym. During these times, a small group of schools put together some semblance of tournament play so the boys can do something. These schools included Holy Spirit, Our Lady of Guadalupe, St. Clement, and St. Joseph. Now that All Saints' gym is completed, the "real" tournament is back.

I coach the 7th/8th grade team for St. Joseph. I've coached three such teams starting from when my son, James, was still in 2nd grade. When he was in 5th grade, I coached him in the 5th/6th grade team, until this year, except for last year, when he was in 7th grade. There was a little brouhaha that year, and I decided not to coach. Mind you, it wasn't my fault. I don't want to elaborate any further because it just upsets me.

For this team, I have six 8th graders and three 7th graders. Most of these boys have played with me in the past, so they know my style. Practices are held at the parish hall cum gym. However, availability of this hall/gym has been my biggest problem. It never seems to be available after 6pm, which is the only time I and my assistant coach are available. I've never had this problem in the past. I just cannot understand why things are so difficult. Who has priority? School or church?

Anyway, we played 3 teams at the Jamboree. They were Holy Spirit, St. Bede, and St. Leander. Each match ran for 20 minutes, and both teams had to fit some warm-ups and actual playing within this allotted time. Scores were tracked (to 25 points), but we always had extra time left, so we played on. The scores didn't really matter. They weren' official. The Jamboree was intended for the players to play as many teams as possible. It was also an opportunity for the coaches to size up the competition once the official matches begin. Each match was officiated by a non-playing team. In my case, I officiated the St. Bede-Holy Spirit game.

We won all our 3 matches. And yes, we were able to size up the competition. From what we've seen so far, it looked like St. Leander would be give us a run for the money. Although we defeated them quite convincingly, the season had just started and there are many more practices to be made and games to be played. As the season progresses, a team can only get better, so we need to be prepared.

It was a successful Jamboree. We showed them that we're the team to reckon with. Looking forward to an exciting and spirited season.

Ole' !!!