The Sacred Heart Prep Girls’ Varsity Volleyball team has had one of the most exciting seasons of the fall. With an undefeated 7-0 league record, the Gators have shown not only talent but also the kind of energy and resilience that make them one of the toughest teams to face. For the players, the sport is about more than winning. Opposite hitter Brie Eisenberg ‘28 says volleyball is what pushes her to her limits, both physically and mentally. She elaborated that “It’s fast-paced, challenging, and it forces me to jump, dive, swing hard, and give everything. When I connect with the ball perfectly, it’s the best feeling. Volleyball teaches me discipline, teamwork, and confidence. It feels like an escape.” For teammate Leilah Abrams ‘28, who has been playing volleyball since she was 6 years old, the appeal comes from the freedom of the game. Abrams says, “You can hustle, dive, go after every ball, and hit as hard as you want. It builds team character and individual character, and it is just so fun!”
The coaches have also been a huge part of shaping this team. Head coach Ali Magner and Ali Taufou, both in their twelfth season at SHP, have worked hard to prepare this team to compete at the highest level. Eisenberg says, “They push us hard, but they also care about us as students and people. If someone is struggling academically, they’ll make sure to have time to catch up. They hold us accountable, but they also support us.” Magner praised the leadership of the upperclassmen, saying, “The upperclassmen have been incredible at bringing the younger players in and setting the tone. We have depth and diversity across the roster, and that makes it unpredictable.” The coach’s influence extends beyond practices and games, shaping the team’s culture and work ethic. By combining high expectations, with genuine support, the coaches help players grow both on the court and in the classroom, while the upperclassmen’s leadership reinforces that culture and keeps the teams united and adaptable.
Team traditions also play a big role in their success. Before games, the players share a meal, play music, and build energy together. Abrams said, “It gets rid of nerves and brings us closer as a team.” Magner added that the bonds go beyond pregame rituals. She continued, mentioning that, “They are all very good friends, both on and off the court. Chemistry and sisterhood are things we preach every day, and the team has done an incredible job making sure that culture is part of everything we do.”
This indescribable bond can be seen in the team’s success, as the season has already had some memorable highlights. At a tournament in Arizona, the Gators defeated a nationally ranked opponent they had lost to the year before. Magner said, “We made lineup changes, and the girls responded by beating a top team.” That game really displayed how the players can adjust quickly and succeed, proving their depth and adaptability against strong competition.
The players know that the work they put in during practice is what prepares them for those moments. Both had advice for younger athletes hoping to reach varsity. Abrams said, “You won’t reach your potential if you do not love the sport. You have to embrace the nervousness, motivate yourself, and find joy in the game.” Eisenberg added that effort every day matters just as much as talent. She said, “Everyone makes mistakes, but the real question is how you react afterward. Bounce back quickly, support your teammates, and stay positive.”
Looking ahead, the team has its sights set on the state championship on November 22nd. Magner said, “Hard work, resilience, and love for the game [are] what will carry us.” With their chemistry and determination, the Gators are ready to chase that goal.
