Calla High School volleyball continues to make great strides. The Lobos have collected two second-place tournament finishes in its inaugural season, and they will hit the floor looking to bring home a championship in their final games tomorrow at Sequoia High School of Merced.

“The season has been amazing,” head coach Tara Maruyama said. “We didn’t have much time, but they’ve made great progress learning the game and putting it together on the court.”

Seniors Anthony Melchar, who received the Sportsmanship award at the Always Believe Tournament on Oct. 13, and Fernando Cortez have anchored the progress as team captains. Justin Moglie and Bukari Barrier have been steady as frontline hitters for the Lobos, while Jesus Saucedo and Ezra Zermeno have helped Calla lock down the backline. It’s working together for a common goal that has been the most rewarding part of the season thus far.

“Volleyball has been fun,” Moglie said. “Even though most of us had never played before, Coach Maruyama helped us learn the game and get better. It’s been a blast being on Calla’s first volleyball team.”

Cortez added, “I haven’t played organized volleyball since middle school. This season has been a great experience getting back on the court and playing with great teammates.”

The Lobos will travel to Merced on Oct. 27, playing in the Dragon Fall Ball Classic hosted by Yosemite High School of Merced. Calla must get past schools representing Ripperdan HS of Madera, Los Banos Valley, Village Oaks of Stockton, Stein of Tracy, Mountain Vista, Sequoia, and the host Yosemite to bring the championship back to Calla. After two second-place finishes, the Lobos look ready to meet that challenge.

“We started with some inexperienced players, but each has grown in abilities and spirit since we began in September. I’m proud of their efforts and how they came together as a team.”