The following is a story from Keira Kenny, a member of the Section XI Student Media team.

Though their season has recently ended, the Ward Melville Girls Volleyball Team experienced tremendous success this year. I had the opportunity to interview team captain Chloe Borch before their quarterfinal match against Patchogue-Medford. Borch spoke at length about how the team’s strong bond and unity fueled their achievements this season and last. Having played a key role in the team’s trip to the state tournament last year, she brought those lessons into her leadership as captain.

When asked, “What elements have you tried to carry over from last year’s team into this year’s team as a captain?” Borch explained that she and the other captains focused heavily on togetherness. She emphasized that the friendships and positive atmosphere within the group were essential to their success. Their mutual support and trust, she said, were the foundation of the team’s accomplishments.

Borch also agreed that unity played the most significant role in their success. She elaborated that long-lasting friendships are substantial in a sport like volleyball, where teamwork and communication are vital. It’s crucial, she said, to “rely on your teammates for that next-point mentality” and to have people who “build you up instead of beat you down” in such a fast-paced game. She praised the culture within the Ward Melville program, noting that positivity has been a driving force behind their continued success.

Heading into their match against Patchogue-Medford, Borch expressed confidence in her team’s dedication, leadership, and effort — and that confidence paid off. Ward Melville defeated the Raiders 3–1 to advance to the semifinals against Connetquot. Though their season ended there, the team finished with an impressive 16–1 record in regular-season league play, perfectly illustrating Borch’s belief that teamwork and unity are key ingredients to success.