Volleyball season starts strong

Photo by Favour Ndukwe

By Favour Ndukwe, Staff Writer 

9/19/25

ROCKLAND- On September 3, the volleyball program began its season with three teams – Varsity, JV1, and JV2, with their first game against Fontbonne Academy.  

After preparing hard through the preseason,  both the varsity and JV1 teams led to a successful start in the season with their first win.

Rockland High freshman Angela Langone said, "We mentally prepare by sitting in a circle and stepping out how they’re going to be and setting goals for ourselves and focusing on what we struggle with and try to make it better."

The team saw some changes over the summer. After the departure of Coach Caroline Kilduff, former Rogers Middle School health teacher, a new coach stepped in for the JV2 team, Erin Cliff.

Freshman Isabella Cannizzaro said, "I definitely feel like our coach has taught us. She's not rough with us, but she's tough, like tough love."

This year, the volleyball teams bring many returning players while also including many new freshmen to the JV1 and JV2 teams.

This season, the team has been very hard-working and heavy-spirited within each team. Whether it is continuously showing every day to practice or cheering on each team at games. 

Freshman Julia Stetson said, "I’ve been going to practice daily and not missing it because it's important, and I've been practicing at home as well."

Practices have been a mix of fun and seriousness, as players strive to push each other to improve as individuals and good teammates while also fostering team spirit. 

Stetson continued, "The vibe at practice… It's definitely a mix of both. We take it seriously, but we also have fun.”

This season´s team captains are sophomores Jojo Simposon, Kaylin Hayes, and Abigail McDonald for the JV1 team. On the varsity team, captains are seniors Brianna Quinlan, Cailey Kelleher, and Ashlyn Ready.

At each game, many students and families are there to show their support, passion, and pride for each player and team, regardless of whether they are good or not. 

"Every time I go to a game, I am always entertained, even if they do badly, I still find it intriguing to watch," Freshman Riley Conlon expressed. 

So far this year, Rockland High's volleyball team has shown many wins in their recent games. With their strong determination, sportsmanship, and pride, it looks like a promising season for the Bulldogs.