Cape volleyball looks to DIAA schedule with hope
The Cape boys’ volleyball team is hoping to get DIAA approval to be a level 3 team this season so the squad can be in the running for a state title. The team was approved as level 1 last spring, level 2 this winter and is in process to get approval for level 3, which puts it in the running for a DIAA-sponsored championship. A DIAA committee meeting next week will impact the decision.
Cape went 12-2 in 2022. Tough competition on the schedule this year includes Sallies, Conrad, MOT Charter, Appoquinimink, Delaware Military Academy, Smyrna and Indian River.
Cape coach Tyler Coupe, in his third year at the helm, said he’ll look to his group of seniors to lead throughout the season. Seniors Charlie Casas, Ryan Diller, Billy Cerf, Dylan Henry, Odin Potemski, Nico Panyko, Brady Lamb, Joe Giles, Ethan Felker, Mason Mendez and Connor Knarr each bring experience and a hungry attitude to the hardwood.
“Our boys did a great job again of recruiting new and athletic talent,” said Coupe. “We have a handful of new seniors, some who are picking things up extremely quickly. Thankfully we also have a handful of freshmen this year, which allows us as coaches to develop them over the next four years as opposed to just three quick months for one season. From top to bottom, we have a lot of talent and physicality. We have several guys who have the skillset to play at several different positions, so it’s going to be tough for us as coaches to figure out which combination and lineup works best for us overall. It’s a great problem to have, to be honest. As physical as we can be, we need continued work on our ball control and finesse. As strong as we can be, if we can’t pass the ball, we’re not going to be able to display that physicality. We’re spending these first few days trying to explain the subtle nuances of the sport while still keep them entertained, and they seem to be responding positively.”
Cape will be hosting a six-team scrimmage Friday, March 10, with Sallies, Delmarva Christian, Indian River, Smyrna and Sussex Academy.
“I think it’s going to be huge for us to see what combinations look correct, but also what the actual game looks like live,” Coupe said. “I’m excited for them to get a chance to play live and give us coaches some information to work with.”
