The gym was on edge long before the first serve. The Springside Chestnut Hill Volleyball team had finally made it to the moment they had been waiting for: the final game of the Inter-Academic League season. The girls’ record this year had been really promising; with a 6-2 record, they secured a spot in the Inter-Ac championship. Sneakers squeaked against the freshly polished wooden floors as players warmed up, stretching out nerves and mentally preparing for their biggest game of the 2025 season. In the stands, families, friends, classmates, and fans slowly filled the gym, their voices echoing throughout. This wasn’t just another game for our SCH girls’ volleyball team; it was a chance to claim the Inter-Ac championship title and make school history.
In previous years, the SCH volleyball team didn’t have the best record, and many people didn’t believe they would reach this moment. A few years ago, their record was 6-11, and they were at the bottom of the Inter-Ac. However, in the fall of 2025, they were able to turn around and make SCH history by tying for Inter-Ac Champions with Germantown Academy and Notre Dame for their first Inter-Ac Title.
“This year, we were able to come together as a team,” said senior London Jackson. “We were able to use and change different positions and still come out on top.”
“It feels great to be an Inter-Ac champ, especially knowing about our team’s record,” said sophomore Chloe Roberts. “It’s a great accomplishment, and it proved to me, and definitely all of the team, that we improved so much over the past few years. As well as showing what’s to come next season.”
The girls had a great start to the season, with wins against The Laurenceville School, Perkiomen School, George School, and The Shipley School. These victories were crucial in setting the tone for what would become a highly competitive season. Eventually, things shifted after losing to GA and Notre Dame in back-to-back games. However, the Devils were determined to make a comeback and still earn a spot in the Inter-Ac championship. The adversity they faced only brought them closer together, and they were determined to bounce back stronger in practice and their game against Agnis Irwin. Each match was an opportunity to prove to everyone that they belonged at the top.
“My favorite part about being on the team is how much fun we have. Even when we need to take drills seriously, we still do our best to make them fun. It always makes our practices and games more enjoyable,” said Roberts.
Even when facing burnout during the season, the team supported each other through it all. “I play volleyball year-round, club and high school, with little off time in between seasons. So it was a big weight on my mental health and my love for volleyball, because I felt exhausted a lot of the time. It took a little bit to overcome, but talking with one of my coaches, Ayana Howard, really helped. We had reflected on my growth, joyful experiences, the ups and downs, and what was to come in my future. She really helped me gain back my confidence and continue through the season,” explained Roberts.
SCH Volleyball has come a long way since being at the bottom of the Inter-Ac, and they have really proven themselves as worthy of the title. “I am so happy we were able to make a name for our school and ourselves,” said Jackson. Even through the ups and downs of this season, they stayed strong and worked hard to fight for something that they believed they could accomplish. This community is strong, and the bond that you make with your teammates and coaches is truly something special. This team is like a family, and they support each other no matter what, whether it’s in season or out. These bonds are something that will last a long time.
