The Charleston Catholic girls volleyball team capped off an impressive season with a 35-10-1 record and a strong .772 win percentage, powering their way to the state quarterfinals. Their success, Coach Jake Nelson says, came from unmatched team chemistry and energy. Coach Nelson reflected proudly on the year, noting back-to-back 30-win seasons and several major player milestones, including thousand-stat achievements from Ilyauna Evans, Bree Gruse, and Alli Wilcox. He described his team in three words: energy, confidence, and effort. Their traditions—like ending the season with Buffalo Wild Wings—help keep the team close. When asked about the goals for next season he says “The goal is always the same,” Nelson said. “Win the whole thing.” Players echoed that tight-knit culture. Nora Aliff, a middle blocker and outside hitter, described the team as “a group of best friends” who support one another on and off the court. Their season goals centered on improving daily, preparing for postseason play, and building the program for the future. Senior Ilyauna Evans credited the team’s success to unity and trust in their coach. She said the group’s chemistry came from chasing the same goals and supporting one another every step of the way. Her favorite part of volleyball? The “next-point mindset” that keeps players focused and resilient. This Charleston Catholic squad played with a combination of joy, intensity, and love for the game that set them apart from every team they faced. Their constant celebrations, high energy, and determination made their season one of the most memorable in recent school history. By Xander Allara and Christian Lorhi