Penn Hills boys volleyball seeks playoff return

By: HSSN Staff
Saturday, March 17, 2018 | 2:15 AM

It's a new boys volleyball season, which means it's a new cast of characters for Penn Hills. The Indians will look to take the next step by securing a playoff spot after missing out by one game a season ago.

The Indians (7-7) have two returning starters — senior outside hitter B.J. Smith and junior setter Napoleon Le — from a team that was eliminated from playoff contention in the final week of the season.

Last year, the Indians lost their critical matchup at Latrobe, 3-1.

“We knew who we were the last couple of years, but going into this we could end up being pretty good. It all depends on the attitude and competitiveness,” coach Jay Mitlo said.

“If we build and be mature about our growth, we will be fine. If we just hope instead of work, then it's not going to be a good season.”

The Indians need to replace a pair of seniors, middle hitter Julian Bennett and middle hitter Eric Cunningham, who were selected third team all-section last season.

Mitlo will not have the services of senior setter/opposite hitter Cal Fisher, a first-team all-section selection. Fisher, who attends Riverview, joined the Penn Hills boys volleyball team through a co-op program.

Mitlo will look to seniors Damion Brady and Luke Greenway as well as junior Tyree Spencer at middle hitters.

“Everyone will need to step up and know their role. As long as everyone comes together as a team, we'll be able to make something happen. Everyone needs to step up and take control,” Smith said.

Brady joined the volleyball team for the first time after being better known for his success as a lineman for the football team. Greenway picked up volleyball after being the starting goalkeeper for the boys soccer team.

Mitlo expects sophomore outside hitter Jacob Lach to be a strong contributor and starter.

“It's all about if we can overcome the experience with coaching and athleticism. We are nowhere near the experience of just about every other team in our section,” Mitlo said.

“We're awfully athletic, so if this was an athletic competition we would be good, but it's a volleyball competition so it's our job to get them coached up and see how well they can learn the sport.”

At the beginning of the season, Mitlo understands the wins might be hard to come by. However, he feels the competition will allow his players to grow.

“We just focus on skill development and competitiveness. We are going to face setbacks. You have to be competitive and continue to push forward despite what you have against you, which is your lack of experience. We've centered our practices around both,” Mitlo said.

“Being great athletes, they have that competitive spirit. We just have to channel that into this sport.”

The Indians will have to deal with a tough Section 3-3A. Last year, Penn-Trafford, which captured the Section 3-3A crown, finished runner-up in the WPIAL playoffs after losing to North Allegheny, 3-0, in the finals.

Penn Hills also must face Norwin, Hempfield and Latrobe, which qualified for the WPIAL playoffs last year. Section 3-3A also includes Armstrong, Gateway and Plum.

“It's more important for me to have the competition and to get the experience. The competition lies within,” Mitlo said.

“Whether we score more points than the other team will play itself out. It's whether or not they continue to strive to get better every day.”

The Indians open their season on the road Saturday at North Allegheny in nonsection action. Section play opens Tuesday against Hempfield.

Andrew John is a freelance writer.

Tags: Penn Hills