After a heartbreaking loss to Choate at home in last year’s New England Tournament, Boys Volleyball looks to improve despite the loss of several high profile players.
The loss of four strong seniors, Curtis Hon ‘10, Conor McAuliffe ‘10, Will Falk-Wallace ‘10, and Andrew Fraser ‘10, has created some holes in Andover’s lineup that will need to be filled not only quickly but with capable athletes as well.
Although these losses hurt, the team has a lot of veterans coming back to the pool. Led by Co-Captains Dan Larson ‘11 and Matt Mahoney ‘11, there are seven other seniors, Austen Novis ‘11, David Thwaites ‘11, Alex Smachlo ‘11, Charlie Oliva ‘11, Conor Deveney ‘11, Alex Nanda ‘11, Ben Morris ‘11 and two returning uppers, Andrew Wilson ‘12 and Calvin Aubrey ‘12.
With a strong line of returners to the water, this year’s team is sure to perform well together. The players have spent a lot of time practicing together, which is sure to bring cohesiveness to the team.
Coach David Fox also brings an element of experience in strategy and training. The team will heavily rely on his knowledge of the sport and substantial background in all things water polo.
Andover not only brings experience to the water, but skill and quickness as well. Seven of the nine seniors and both of the team’s returning uppers are varsity swimmers. Talent and speed in the water will be the driving force of Andover Boys Water Polo this season.
To fill in the gaps left by the very gifted athletes from Class of 2010, some new talent has appeared, including Adam Farrell ‘12. The team has high hopes for the new players.
While there does not appear to be any one notable star player, confidence in the team and each other will certainly be a motivating force this season. “I think this is going to be a really strong season. We looked better in the water than I’ve ever seen throughout my four years here,” said Larson.
After a couple weeks of pre-season and team practices, the team will take on Loomis Chaffee on Saturday in its season opener. The team will then take on rival Exeter on Wednesday in what is always a competitive game between the two powerhouses.
