ESM boys volleyball rises to glory after county final loss
- The Eastport-South Manor boys volleyball team finished their 2023 season with a flawless record of 18-0.
- They emerged victorious in the state Division II championship match against Clarence, marking their third state title in history.
- Their success was attributed to strong defensive play, excellent teamwork, and standout performances from key players.
In 2023, Eastport-South Manor, a boys volleyball team based in New York, achieved remarkable success by winning the state Division II championship. This victory came after a challenging period for the Sharks following their previous state title in 2021, where they graduated most of their starting lineup. Coach Bill Kropp anticipated a rebuilding phase for the team but was optimistic about their prospects. The Sharks reached the county finals in the subsequent year, reinforcing the belief that they were poised for redemption after a previous disappointing loss. This year, the team excelled with an outstanding record, finishing the season undefeated at 18-0 and only losing two sets. Their skills were put to the ultimate test in the state championship match against Clarence from Section VI, where they showcased their dominance by securing a straight-set victory with scores of 25-21, 25-22, and 25-16. The championship game initially started with some mistakes on their part, but a quick regrouping after a timeout allowed the Sharks to take control and dominate the match. A crucial element of their success was the defensive strategy employed by the team. The players understood that effective defense was essential to maintain their scoring opportunities. Jack Cain, a standout junior on the team, emphasized the importance of defensive play in setting up offensive scoring chances. This teamwork mentality contributed significantly to their overall performance and success throughout the season. Among the key players, Ayden DesLauriers shone particularly bright. As a commit to Loyola Chicago, his exceptional postseason stats included 30 kills and 17 digs during the county final and 27 kills in the Long Island championship match. His contributions went beyond just his statistics; DesLauriers acted as both a leader and mentor, sharing insights from national training camps and aiding in the development of his teammates. Looking ahead, despite having several seniors like DesLauriers, Logan DeLumen, and Ralph Betner graduating, the program remains optimistic about its future. The team aims to adapt by developing a more diverse offensive strategy moving forward, setting a positive outlook for the next generation of players in Eastport-South Manor’s volleyball program.