By Kazi Nassif

The senior players jumped with joy as the final buzzer echoed through the crowded gym, filled to capacity for the seniors vs. staff volleyball game. Friday was the first time the seniors had ever defeated the staff in the annual volleyball game, marking a major achievement for the class of 2016.

The seniors won the hard-fought first set 25-21, setting the tone for the rest of the game. They went on to defeat the staff 2 sets to none, winning the second set 25-17. The seniors on the varsity volleyball team also chipped into the winning effort.

Junior varsity volleyball coach Krissy Baker believes that the Seniors vs. Staff game is critical because of financial and recreational purposes.

“It’s a huge fundraiser for the senior class,” Baker said. “We make a bunch of money off of it and it helps towards prom costs. But I also think it’s just a fun way for the kids and teachers to interact and go off into Thanksgiving Break.”

Baker said she was happy that the senior volleyball players were able to go out on top.

“I’m excited for the seniors,” she said. “This group of senior volleyball girls are a really good group of kids. It was nice for them to go out there and kind of show off in front of everyone.”

Senior Paul Pruski had watched volleyball games throughout the season and relished his opportunity to finally go out and get to play himself.

“I had a lot of fun playing in the game,” Pruski said. “I have watched volleyball all year and it was fun to finally get to play.”

Pruski said he wasn’t short on confidence when it came to taking the court and playing the previously undefeated staff.

“The teachers had nothing on us,” he said. “It felt good to finally win for the first time.”

Senior player Ahmad Yehia said he was happy that the seniors were able to grab the win, especially after the teachers condemned the students before the game.

“All of the teachers were talking trash the days before so it felt nice being able to beat them,” Yehia said. “I had a blast. Everything went perfect.”