Plum volleyball closes season on high note

By: HSSN Staff
Friday, May 18, 2018 | 11:00 PM

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The Plum boys volleyball team finished its season on a high note with a 3-1 win over Penn Hills.

The Mustangs finished with a 2-13 record. Although the team didn't meet expectations, there is a bright side for next season.

“We have a bunch of younger guys that we are excited about and are interested in progressing and learning the game,” coach Keith Nonnenberg said. “We also had some first-year juniors that have made some improvement and will be looking forward to working on their games.”

To get back on track, the Mustangs will have to work over the offseason and find replacements for the seniors, especially outside hitter Frank Czura.

“We will hopefully be able to participate in some tournaments as a new group and will be able to practice during the open gyms,” Nonnenberg said. “It is also important for us and the guys on the team to somewhat recruit and find some athletic guys that can make an impact on the team and interest in the game.”

Nonnenberg was disappointed he wasn't able to give his senior leader Czura a better farewell as he has led this team in every aspect.

“Frank has not only been a leader on and off the court, but the classroom as well, graduating with a 4.64 GPA,” Nonnenberg said. “When you have a guy like that who is also willing to play any position we need him at, at any time, he is going to be impossible to replace. The impact that he has made on this team will be shown for years to come, as others step up in his place.”

One of the players Nonnenberg is excited about is 6-foot-4 freshman middle hitter Alex Vidas. He will play a crucial role in the team's future, especially in the deepest section in the WPIAL with four of the top 10 Class AAA teams.

“The bright side is that we have gained some experience playing some of the most talented teams, and it gives our guys a perspective of where we need to be,” Nonnenberg said. “There is no place to hide in this section. You have to be constantly working and improving.”

It was important for the Mustangs to end the season with a win and gain confidence for the younger core going into the next season.

“We wanted to be able to send our seniors out on a high note and make it a night for them to remember,” Nonnenberg said. “It was fun to watch them celebrate the 3-2 win against Gateway earlier in the season, and we wanted to see that again to close out our season.”

Cody Scott is a freelance writer.