On March 8, the 7th and 8th grade boys’ volleyball teams from Jefferson and Jackson Middle Schools competed at Willowbrook High School.
District 45 volleyball fans from both schools came out in support of their student-athletes. The first game was between the 8th-grade teams, with the Jefferson Wildcats coming out victorious with scores of 25-22, 21-25, and 15-8.
Following the 8th-grade contest, the 7th-grade teams played. The Jaguars were victorious by scores of 25-15, 25-20.
Wildcat 8th grade coach Matthew Kulovits thought the game offered a blend of athleticism, strategy, and teamwork, providing an engaging and enjoyable experience for participants and spectators.
With the season over, Kulovits saw many positives about the 8th-grade boys’ volleyball team.
“Over the course of the season, players showed significant improvement in their volleyball skills,” said Kulovits. Whether it was serving, passing, setting, spiking, or blocking, each player made strides in their individual abilities, contributing to the team’s overall success.”
Kulovits felt that his Wildcats displayed resilience and determination, never giving up and always pushing forward. This perseverance, Kulovits feels, allowed them to overcome obstacles and finish the season strong.
Angel Flores, an 8th grader from Jefferson and member of the Wildcats Volleyball team, said that this was the second time they had played Jackson this year. They had lost the first match-up at Jefferson Middle School.
“It was competitive again, and we had some excellent rallies,” said Flores. “Even though we were nervous, we stayed confident, even if we lost a point.”
While the Wildcats’ season is over, Flores believes they had some good matches and others where they could have done better. “But we all had fun, ” he said.
Flores also praised the Jaguars. “Jackson was really tall, and they know how to receive and save the ball.”
Congratulations to the Wildcat and Jaguar players and coaches for competing so well and putting on an entertaining event for fans!