The Oratory volleyball team is nearing the end of the regular season and is entering the postseason with strong momentum. After creating the team just two years ago, the Rams have proven not once, but twice, that they are contenders at the county and state level. Currently standing at a 14-4 overall record and a 9-0 record in their division, they know how to compete. Because of this, they are the Mountain Division Champions for the first time ever.
Throughout the spring, the Rams faced all levels of competition. While they faced early tests against strong programs like Elizabeth, Westfield, and St. Joseph Metuchen, they remained determined, winning the next four games. A tough Union away game slipped away, and the Rams fell to 7-4. Despite this, they once again bounced back and won the following seven, with strong wins over teams like Glen Ridge and Linden.
The individual performances have been equally as impressive as the record. Senior and UCSB commit Devon Fernandez leads all of New Jersey with 316 kills and leads the team in aces with 32. Complementing him on the outside is senior Jeremy Yeager, who is a reliable and strong second option with 171 kills. Senior Miles Williamson has 323 assists, and sophomore newcomer Justin Sicat has made an immediate impact with his 194. Defensively, the team excels as well. Noah Tockarshewsky is key with 169 digs. The pair of middles, Zachary Owens and Andrew Hipolit, combined for 50 blocks and 72 kills. The overall effort of all members proves to be a driving force of the success.
With only two more games left against Scotch Plains-Fanwood and Delbarton, the Rams are looking to end strong and avenge last year’s loss in the semifinals of states.
