The Orange Lutheran boys volleyball team starts their season next week and is focused on making a deep run in the playoffs.
 
The Lancers will see strong leadership both on and off the court from senior outside hitters Connor Engelbrecht and Logan Busch.
 
"They've put in a lot of time in the offseason, so they're more polished in their skills," says OLu boys volleyball head coach Henry Valiente. "I think they're great leaders as well."
 
Engelbrecht and Busch will be joined by fellow senior middle blockers Evan Lidecis and James Heinicke, as well as senior setter David Zazueta and senior libero Carson Kliewer. Other returning varsity players include sophomore Calvin Cygan and juniors Josiah Trautman and Sam Utu.
 
With much of the roster having played together for a number of years, Valiente sees a cohesive group that has built strong chemistry and is ready to compete at a high level.
 
"Our team seems fresh, they seem fast and they seem more mature," says Valiente. "This year, there is a more focused maturity. They don't look like they get rattled much. They know the ropes, and they know that since they've been together for a long time, it just makes sense."
 
OLu will be competing in a number of tournaments this season, including the Foothill Tournament (February 21 – 22), the Sonora Tournament (April 5) and the Hawaii Boys Tournament hosted by Iolani School in Honolulu, Hawaii (March 27 – 29).
 
The Lancers kick off their season February 18 on the road at Sonora. Trinity League play begins March 13 when they host Servite. League competition is always challenging, but Valiente believes the team's depth and determination will set them apart.
 
"I am so excited to see what kind of fight they'll have this year," says Valiente. "I think everyone gets better and better, but so do we, and I'm just excited to see what they can cultivate together this year."