After graduation losses, Penn-Trafford volleyball to rely on size, depth

By: HSSN Staff
Friday, March 23, 2018 | 3:51 PM

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Expectations have been raised for the Penn-Trafford boys volleyball team.

The Warriors are riding a hot streak from the previous two seasons. The run includes a pair of section titles thanks to a 27-1 record as well as back-to-back trips to the WPIAL Class 3A title game with a championship win in 2016.

Despite losing several key players to graduation, Penn-Trafford coach Jim Schall said the team is looking to keep the high level of play going.

“I think as long as we are putting in a good effort every day and improve a lot through the year, we'll be in a good place by the end of the season,” Schall said. “It would be nice to be in the spot we have been in again. But we'll have to see how things go.”

The Warriors have some rebuilding to do. The team lost seven seniors from the 2017 roster, including leaders in kills (Brandon McGowan), assists (Joe Salesi) and blocks (Zach Werksman).

Whatever group of players the Warriors send onto the court, size and depth should help benefit the team.

“We won't be small, no matter what lineup we put out there,” Schall said. “We also have the most guys ever. We have a lot of guys who can really play.

“As far as skill goes, our defense and passing have been good.”

That should bode well in Section 3 play. Schall expects the section to be competitive with rivals Hempfield, Norwin and Latrobe being top contenders for the crown.

“Armstrong hasn't done really well,” Schall said. “But I think they will be one of the most improved teams. Plum and Gateway have new coaches. And Penn Hills has basketball guys returning who just finished their season.”

A trio of returning starters will look to guide Penn-Trafford this season. Senior Nick Tarabrella played as an outside hitter last season, but his position this year is up in the air. He could return to the same spot or move to setter.

Sean Kelly was a middle hitter but will likely see time as an outside hitter this season. Thomas Shaw, who saw a considerable amount of time in the back row last year, will be a libero this season.

“We have some pretty good experience with those guys,” Schall said. “Sean was a first-year guy last season but is a really good athlete. He has become a pretty good player.”

In addition to the returning starters, Penn-Trafford has a number of athletes who have been waiting for their time to crack the starting lineup. Outside hitter Logan Paluzzi saw the court a good bit last season as a reserve player.

Ryan Schiavone and Jake Tappe are set to both see time at middle hitter.

“We have some question marks,” Schall said. “We will have to see how things go in certain spots. We have a lot of good guys. It is just finding the right spot for them.”

Nathan Smith is a freelance writer.

Tags: Penn-Trafford