By Grant Miller and Alamar Alyamani

The energy in the gym was electric as the volleyball sailed back-and-forth over the net with players sprinting, jumping, and diving to keep the game in motion, every point a test of their agility and teamwork.

The Maury Commodores are on a two-game winning streak due to a mixture of experience, fresh talent, and a positive team culture. 

After a loss to Cape Henry Collegiate School in late August, the Commodores shut out their next two opponents, Granby High on Sept. 4 (3-0) and Manor High School on Sept. 9 (3-0). 

Their coach, Andrea Everett, has chalked up the strong start to experience, especially because four of their starting six players are seniors like Lily Bockheim and Madison Watts. 

She also praised outside hitters Watts and freshman Sadie Stafford for their strong play.

“Those two are big dominant swings in this Hampton Roads area,” Everett said. “Hands down, they are the key to our success.”

Everett also said sophomore setter Khalani Muhammad has improved this season, but she maintained that it has been an overall team effort. 

“The fact that I have a group of girls who are willing to just try everything and do everything and listen,” Everett said. “That’s why we’re so successful because they trust each other as much as I trust them.”

The Commodores will play Great Bridge High school at home on Sept. 10.