Long Beach City College men’s volleyball team is off to a strong start after winning 7 out of their first 8 games, recently getting shut out against Santa Barbara Community College by a score of 3-0.
Last season, the team couldn’t compete in the season due to the pandemic because it was canceled. This year they have a strong group of players excited and ready to play in the upcoming games.
“We have 14 guys who can step on the court to contribute, which has been a huge advantage. a couple of guys couldn’t play last year due to covid,” head coach Jonathan Charette said. “So we’re really eager to represent LBCC athletics.”
With a record of 6-1, the team has shown their eagerness to play and have a winning mentality. The team overall has created a strong chemistry with each other and their roles, effectively playing as a group versus individually.
The team has put up great fights against schools such as Irvine Valley, Orange Coast and San Diego Mesa claiming the victory against all. Currently the team is on a win streak of 3 victories.
Focusing on their goals the players are hoping for success in all areas on and off the field.
“We have a lot of goals for this season. We want to get closer as a team and build team chemistry, but overall, we’d like to win the state championship,” middle blocker James Ulugalu said.
LBCC Men’s Volleyball team’s only loss has come against Orange Coast, one of the best teams in California. The game itself was closely contested with close scores. Long Beach City College fell in the last set 15-8, losing the game 3-2.
“Although we’ve been winning games so far, there are a few things we can improve. We need to learn how to trust each other and communicate better,” middle blocker Amery Leomiti said on the weaknesses of the team. “Also, we need to be more consistent and have more energy.”
As the team keeps winning the goals are looking likely to come as the team is hoping to add another win to their winning streak and aiming for winning conference and state championships this year.
This record should not surprise anyone as the Long Beach City College men’s volleyball team has been traditionally dominant, winning the state championship in 2019 and had an 11-1 record in 2020 before the covid shutdown.
Their next game is March 4th at the LBCC gym against Antelope Valley College (3-4) at 6 pm.