The Black and White

by Jillian Mastrostefano photos by Emilia Koopman

A season filled with enthralling victories, hard-fought losses, and many significant bonding experiences, is finally approaching its end. 

October 21, 2024 marked the final home game for the 2024 volleyball graduates to ever experience. In sadness but in celebration was planned an acknowledgment ceremony for all six of these seniors that came along with their last home victory. 

Prior to the game’s beginning, it was proven how much significance this group brought to their team; the immense effort organized for their favor, the tears shed by many friends and family, and the love received on and off the court. These seniors have made the varsity team what it is, and together it led to this momentous victory, three to nothing, on their special night. 

Starting on tonight’s court with captain Avery Donovan, she really made her mark at, what can only be assumed to be, her greatest position of strength. Donovan at the net is in competition with no one, her sets filled with grace, leading her teammates to incredible points, coordinating them with the reliance only a perfect passer could give. Never forgotten will be one of the greatest performers the net has ever seen.

Also with great recognition was Pilgrim’s very own libero, Marin Prest. A senior well deserving of this title, with several games showcasing her immense dedication towards obtaining the ball with her quick reflexes, deep squats, and distant dives, all seen at tonight’s game. This libero will be hard to replace, but never hard to remember.

Another part of this year’s seniors is player Abby Correia, most impressive also at the net, constantly adjusting whenever needed and wherever the ball leads her. Receiving several sets over her years and gaining an incredibly unique point at tonight’s game. Her team performance and communication across the court has earned the respect of her team. 

Alexis Warburton, best known for her unbelievable dives and reaches across great lengths of the court, always there where she needs to be. One of the most reliable players of the season, constantly ready and prepared for the ball. She ignores the possible consequences and never hesitates to go in at take the risk.

With one of the most prominent serves among her team is senior Jordania Rivera, the ball proceeding with easy strength within the other team’s court, scoring multiple aces across her season. A powerhouse in the back row, recovering many heaving balls, and launching them with such simplicity. 

Ending with second varsity captain Kayli Sherlock, an absolute sublimity anywhere on the court. At tonight’s game alone: at the net with numerous blocks and potent spikes, at the serving line with dynamic serves and aces, and at the back with easy security of the ball. It’s clear Kayli has proven her commitment to this sport and this team, and her essence as a player will be long lasting among Pilgrim. 

Following a long, demanding season, varsity Coach Harrington says, “I am most proud of the girls’ mental toughness and their ability to continue to fight and play tough every night.” Appreciating the heavy effort put in by every senior this season, Coach Harrington has recognized their dedication and enthusiasm throughout every game–win or lose. 

A perfect way to sum up being a senior on this team is a statement by Captain Avery Donovan. “Being a senior on the team has allowed me to really cherish every last moment even more because I knew it was my last time doing a lot of things on the team and it has really allowed me to appreciate this specific season as much as I can and really cherish every moment.”