Written By: Abigail Smith

Rye Country Day’s Varsity Volleyball team has started to find its rhythm. Under first-year Head Coach Guilherme Lima, whom the team refers to as Coach G, the Wildcats are leaning into a simple formula: pass, serve, and communicate, all while keeping the energy high. This team looks sharper each week, believing their best volleyball games are still ahead. 

From the start of preseason, practices were centered on the two most important parts of the game, passing and serving, while also emphasizing daily goals of loud communication and consistent, high energy. “We focused on reviewing the fundamentals, fine-tuning technique, and building a strong understanding of our defensive and offensive systems,” says Coach G. As the season progresses, they have stressed playing more aggressively and becoming more consistent.

Sophomore outside hitter Reese Morrow ‘28 comments on her excitement for the rest of the season. “We have a strong team with lots of talent, and we have a new coach who we all love.” Coach G describes the group as “young, but strong” and explains their go-to motto, Focus, Fight, Finish. From the start of the season, the team knew it would be one focused on growth and truth, but he explains that the motto represents their mindset of staying locked in, competing hard every point, and finishing matches with intensity.”

The Wildcats had some clutch wins against St. Luke’s and Sacred Heart NYC, winning both 3-0. They also had a tough battle against Fieldston, but remained confident and won 3-2. Their next matches against Long Island Lutheran, Sacred Heart, and Masters will both be tough tests, but the team is ready for the challenge. With their focus on playing with a purpose, these girls are determined to keep improving each match. Their ultimate goal is to qualify for the FAA playoffs in November, and they are doing everything to make it happen.