Xaverian volleyball team stuns Salesian

The Xaverian varsity volleyball team opened its 2013 season returning four veteran players — senior team captains Steven Swenson, a fourth year varsity player, Tommy Fitzgerald and Andrew Filipowicz, and junior Connor McHale.

The future of this program is bright, with the addition of four freshmen — Richard Cardy, Angelo Russo, Chris Sammon, and Matthew Ruggerio, and juniors Ryan Verano, Rob Toye, Mike Castellano, Liam Lachner, Mike Wallace and Matthew Bramante.

The Clippers sailed past the Salesian Eagles on the Clippers’ home court, sweeping the match in three straight sets. With strong play at the net and a powerful blocking game, the Clippers controlled the match from start to finish.

Led by Swenson, Fitzgerald and Filipowicz, the Clippers attacked early, and never let up. Fitzgerald and Swenson kept the Eagles on their heels, with powerful blocks and a strong hitting game, while Filipowicz was strong at the net and grabbed countless digs in the backcourt.

Lefty junior McHale was also incredible at the net, and stunned the Eagles with stellar serves. Freshman Cardy showed some impressive blocking and hitting skills, and promises to be a rising star on the team. Castellano and Verano were all over the court, setting up the hitters and digging anything that came their way.Toye provided support with strong serves and powerful blocks.