Bright Future Very Likely for BHS Volleyball Team

By KEN HAMWEY,
Staff Sports Writer

The 2023 edition of the Blackhawks now is the first girls’ volleyball team at BHS to advance to a state final. And, it’s been 27 years since the Blackhawks got to the Final Four. Another lengthy drought ended when the Blackhawks posted an 8-0 record to win the Tri Valley League Small Division title. That championship ended a 23-year run of failing to garner a league championship.The Bellingham girls’ volleyball team fell short in the state final game against Ipswich, 3-2, but coach Steve Mantegani’s forces not only exceeded expectations, but also registered some impressive firsts for the program.

“We had talent, but we were young,’’ Mantegani said. “It was an amazing run, somewhat unexpected but definitely something special.’’

BHS began its journey by defeating South Lancaster Academy, then added three more triumphs over Advanced Math and Science Academy, Rockland, and Frontier Regional.

The Blackhawks lost the opening game against Ipswich, managed to win the next two, but faltered in the fourth and final games. The Blackhawks lost the fifth game by a 15-9 margin.

“Losing in a state final is very disappointing,’’ said Mantegani, who also coaches the boys’ volleyball team. “I feel badly for the seniors, like captains Ari Elster and Ciara Crayton, and Kateri Ducharme, Sarah Pirrong and Kira Syriac. They’ve got no more chances at a state crown. Our younger players, however, can look forward to a few more opportunities, but there’s no guarantees getting to that level again.’’

When the fifth game ended, Mantegani huddled with his team on the court at Worcester State offering his thoughts. “Who would have thought at day one of tryouts that we’d end up playing for the Division 4 state championship,’’ he said. “It’s been a magical season, and I know it hurts to lose. But, don’t hang your heads. Be proud of what you accomplished.’’

The Bellingham spikers displayed plenty of resiliency during the regular season. They won their first eight matches, then lost three straight — to Medfield, Hopkinton and Holliston. 

“We didn’t crumble,’’ Mantegani said. “We bounced back and won our final eight matches, ending the regular season at 16-3 and claiming the division title.’’

Next year could result in another long run in the playoffs. The team has eight returnees, all with experience. And, the core group is young.

Here’s a thumbnail look at Mantegani’s nucleus for next season, with his comments:

SOPHIA SOTO — A freshman libero this season, she became the TVL Small Division’s Most Valuable Player. “She was one of our best defensive players. She’s quick and a leader on the court.’’

MIA MILANI — A freshman who competed as an outside hitter, she became a TVL all-star. “Mia is a dynamic hitter and a great all-around player.”

VAL NOLAN — A sophomore outside hitter, she also earned TVL all-star recognition. “A tremendous competitor, Val is great on defense, has lots of energy and is strong on the outside.”

TAYLOR CALLERY — A junior, she’s versatile, moving from setter to right side hitter. “A good server, Taylor played mostly as a hitter and did a great job making the transition.’’ 

JACOBI HOUSTON — A sophomore setter, she handled that role effectively. “Jacobi has steady hands and she continues to grow in her role. Her ability to get the ball to the hitters is outstanding.’’

MADY DeOLIVERA — “Mady had a good freshman year, displaying lots of versatility. She was capable as an outside hitter and she was very good when we used her on the right side.’’

AUBREY CALLERY — An eighth-grade middle hitter, she filled in for Ducharme, who missed 16 games because of a concussion. “Aubrey has energy, and she gets her share of blocks at the net. She keeps her mistakes to a minimum.’’

MAYA JACKSON — A junior outside hitter, she missed the entire season, recuperating from a torn ACL suffered last year in basketball during the Hutchinson Tourney. “Maya played  outside hitter for us for three years. She’s a great passer and a dynamic hitter. She was a TVL all-star for three seasons.’’

The girls’ run to the state tourney final has elevated the BHS volleyball program to new heights. As Mantegani says, “The girls have a bright future. We’ll still be a young squad but there’ll be plenty of firepower returning.’’

The girls finished with a record of 20-4, and interesting enough, the four losses all went to five games. “We caught fire and we peaked at the right time,’’ Mantegani said.