Great growth: National boys high school volleyball preview, part 1

High school boys volleyball, one of the fastest growing sports in America, is either underway or begins play soon around the nation. This is our two-part look at the 28 states playing boys volleyball around the USA, and we know there are more to come.

The First Point Volleyball Foundation is on a mission to get all 50 states to sanction boys high school volleyball by the Olympics in 2028. 

“More boys are getting a chance to play high school volleyball largely due to the commitment of volunteers around the country,” said Wade Garard, the CEO and founder of First Point. “What we are finding from the work being done by members of First Point’s high school growth committee is that when a passionate group of volunteers relentlessly advocate for official status it can happen.  

“No one thought we would be able to get 10 states to vote yes for sanctioning in a seven-year period.”

But that has happened, of course. Since First Point began its efforts,the following states have become sanctioned or are now emerging status:

Colorado
Delaware
Indiana
Kentucky
Minnesota
Missouri
Ohio
Oregon
South Carolina
Utah

What’s more, active efforts are underway in 22 remaining states, and going well in Georgia, North Carolina and Texas.

We contacted multiple coaches, administrators and club directors to gather information on the upcoming season with a postseason recap to follow in a few months. Please e-mail kevinpratte6@gmail.com to provide information or feedback.

Arizona

Sandra Day O’Conner is the favorite, led by opposite Finn Kearney, outside Carter King and setter Keagin Christenson. Trevell Jordan of Desert Ridge, one of the top middles in the country, who spent time in the USA gym last summer with Kearny. Challenging Sandra Day O’Connor will be Higley, Highland and Casteel.
Top Programs
1 — Casteel
2 — Highland
3 –Higley
4 – Perry
5 — Sandra Day O’Connor
Players to watch
S – Keagin Christenson (Sandra Day O’Connor)
MB — Trevell Jordan (Desert Ridge)
OPP – Finn Kearney (Sandra Day O’Connor)
OH — Carter King (Sandra Day O’Connor)
OH – Connor Oldani (Brophy)
Noteworthy: With local university Grand Canyon (currently No. 2 in the nation) doing so well, more area boys are getting involved in the sport. Fear and Aspire are two of the national travel club teams that help Arizona athletes prepare for high school.
Quoteworthy: “I wish I had one more year with all my teammates. I am going to make the most of this season and prepare to play at GCU.” –…