Chaparral boys had plenty to learn from the girls.
But it’s obvious the school is becoming known for volleyball in
both genders.
Chaparral High School boys volleyball, not sanctioned by the
Colorado High School Activities Association, was 9-7 with two
regular-season matches left on its schedule, battling its way
through the Denver South League with 2010 champions Regis A and
cross-town rival Ponderosa, which has also put a quality team on
the court the past few years.
Under the coaching of Matt Dalton, father to Nicole and Karlie
Dalton of the Wolverines’ 2010 state championship girls team,
Chaparral boys benefited from a better turnout this season.
“There was so much interest in volleyball among Chaparral boys
this year than in previous years,” Dalton said. “Although only two
of our players have extensive club experience, others are excellent
athletes and great students. Great group of boys, willing to learn
and apply themselves each and every day.”
Dalton feels much of Chaparral’s toughest competition has beefed
up with several club volleyball players on their respective teams.
It’s an outlet some of Chaparral’s players are now eyeing.
“Some of our players are showing strong interest in pursuing
club volleyball,” Dalton said. “The strength of our players are
their attitude and athleticism. They all enjoyed playing other
varsity sports, mostly basketball and tennis, but to learn and
master the fundamentals of volleyball will take time, and they are
right on track to achieve those goals.”
The Wolverines girls aren’t the only team where Dalton talent
has shined. The boys squad has Hayden Dalton, Matt’s son, at its
net doing damage to opponents.
With some players being “raw” to the sport, the coach said some
have been surprised at how enjoyable volleyball can be.
“To an athlete, they have all been very surprised and encouraged
by the competitiveness and enjoyment of the game itself,” Matt
Dalton said. “Boys volleyball in years past may have an unwarranted
stigma attached to it.
“This group of boys truly sees how great this game really is.
The momentum can change on a dime, and the power in which some of
these boys can generate is no game for wimps.”
