“Defense is probably the most important thing in volleyball,” said Andover Boys Volleyball Co-Captain Ji Tae Park ’14. This year, the team’s defensive capability will come down to the learning curve of newcomer Brendan Deorocki ’15 and the performance of returner David Yoon ’14. The two middle blockers will need to be on top of their game if Andover is to find success this season.
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**Brendan Deorocki ’15**
This is Deorocki’s first year playing volleyball. At 205 pounds and 6’6”, Deorocki was on Andover Football’s championship-winning team last fall. Coach Clyfe Beckwith said, “Brendan’s skills are very raw, and with time he will improve his play reading and court covering ability: he is a newcomer to the sport but is already making a big impact with his athleticism in blocking.” Deorocki already understands his role on the team and knows that he must be able to both defend and score points. “It is the middle hitter’s responsibility to take away spikes and hard hits from the opposing team in order to protect teammates,” said Deorocki.
**David Yoon ’14**
With three years of experience, Yoon, 6’3” and 185 pounds, will guide Deorocki in Andover’s first line of defense. According to Yoon, the most important skill that a middle blocker needs is stamina and consistency. A good blocker can change the pace of the game through successful blocks and clean hits, as well as “being energetic and supportive of other players on the court when playing,” said Yoon. Yoon is no stranger to the court, and his height was imperative in his Intramural Basketball team’s championship win this past winter.
