The school’s boys volleyball program ended another season full of nationally ranked competition and a deep playoff run. The boys varsity team closed out the year with an overall 32-10 record, a league title and another appearance in the California Interscholastic Federation (CIF) Open Division finals.
At the start of the season, expectations were already high for the Falcons. Head coach Nick Rubecki prompted the team to compete at an elite level.
“We kind of knew we were going to be one of the best teams in San Diego,” Rubecki said. “It was cool to see throughout the year the belief that we can actually accomplish all of our goals.”
While talent played a major factor in the team’s winnings, outside hitter and libero Griffin Dieter (11) explained that the team’s chemistry became one of its biggest strengths.
“We were able to come together much better than we [did] in the past,” Deiter said. “By the end of the year, I feel like I’ve become really close friends with all the guys.”
According to Rubecki, the connection between players helped create a unique atmosphere throughout the season.
“The team has been one of the tightest in terms of how they hang off the court and interact with each other,” Rubecki said.
That “chemistry” showed throughout the Falcons’ playoff run, especially during the CIF Open Division semifinals against Francis Parker High School, where they won 3-2.
“We were down two sets to nothing, and we came back and won in five sets,” Dieter said.
Rubecki highlighted moments like that stood out because of the way the team stayed composed under immense pressure.
“I’m just proud of the guys for staying tough mentally and staying together and being positive with one another,” Rubecki said.
Middle blocker David Kim (12) emphasized that “one of the best parts of the season was the bond formed between teammates.”
“As the season goes on, you get closer to them,” Kim said. “It just comes naturally.”
Kim also reflected on the team’s run to the CIF Open Division championship match against The Bishop’s School Knights.
“Losing to the Bishop’s in the CIF championships hurt,” Kim said. “We went to five [sets], and it was brutal.”
Despite the ending, players and coaches agreed the season was defined by more than wins and losses, rather a “connected” team environment.
“It wasn’t really just like, ‘Okay, we’re going to practice, then we’re going home,’” Dieter said. “We’re going to practice, we’re going to have fun and it’s something I looked forward to daily.”
Rubechi highlights Kim for his energy and leadership and Dieter for transitioning into a new position.
“On his club team, [Dieter] plays libero, and for us, he played outside, and he absolutely killed it,” Rubecki said.
As the season came to an end, the senior class waved goodbye.
“The senior class this year was really so special and has left a mark on this program,” Rubecki said.
