Boys’ volleyball off to a promising start under new coach

Maceo Gifford (’24) sets the ball for Colin Hughes (’25) and Ali Badr (’25) in a game against Torrance on February 20 to secure a 3-0 win, starting their season off strong.

The Samo boys’ varsity volleyball team began their long anticipated season, winning 3 straight sets against their opponents at Torrance High School on February 20th. This was an optimistic start for the team, being led by the new head varsity coach Pete Barraza. The volleyball team at Samo has a great legacy they’re carrying on. The program has included olympians, collegiate coaches, international players and many more. Barraza sees this potential in his own players and is determined to foster this spirit in them within the ongoing season. 

“There's a responsibility to be mindful of [the team’s history], to try to coach, support and cultivate the student athletes so that they are performing at their highest levels possible,” Barraza said.

Barraza is very impressed with how his team is doing so far, not only in competition, but through their general positive demeanor. 

“We have a good team, a talented group of guys here. I'm impressed by the way they respect each other on the court,” Barraza said. “They’re invested in being mindful of taking direction so that they can give themselves a chance to compete with positive outcomes.” 

Maceo Gifford (‘24), the varsity team setter, also sees a lot of opportunity for this season. 

“My goal personally for this season is to hopefully take this team to the CIF playoffs because in my time, we have never made the playoffs… This year is looking like the most promising so I think as a team, we need to really focus on getting top three placement in the league.”

While Barraza believed the team had a nice kickoff, he was adamant that there is still more to be worked on throughout the season. 

“I think it gave us a chance to see some of the minutiae that needs to be addressed,” Barraza said. “Fine tuning from the way we transition. But overall, I'm happy that we won our opening game here. And with lots of things to look forward to.” 

Boys Volleyball will be playing throughout the next months in the North Gym where Samo can watch their progress going forward. Players like Gifford welcome and encourage students to come.