Sweet Senior Night for Souderton with sweep of rival Central Bucks South

FRANCONIA >> Winning on Senior Night as well as adding fuel to its playoff surge, there were smiles all around for the Souderton boys volleyball team Tuesday night.

“I just think there was a lot of energy. We all love playing together, and it was just nice to come together and play really good volleyball,” said Big Red senior Andrew Brown.

Souderton won in style, prevailing 25-14, 25-17, 25-19 over Central Bucks South in a Suburban One League American Division clash.

The win raised Big Red’s division record to 8-5 while evening its overall record to 9-9. Souderton was ranked ninth in District 1-3A going into this week, with two games to go (Big Red hosts Unionville Wednesday).

“Tonight was all about the seniors, and it’s also an important win as we are getting into the playoff picture, we can’t afford a loss here,” said Souderton coach Luke Pinto. “The seniors did an awesome job on their night and I’m really happy for them. Now we just keep going.”

Big Red was in control from start to finish.

A young South squad (2-17, 0-14 American) did have its moments, with contributions from Evan Lahoda, Dylan Hillegas and Joe Sissyoh.

But Big Red closed out each set strong.

“They had fun tonight, which was huge,” said Pinto. “We had four games in a row last week. It’s been a long season, so to see them come out here and have fun, in a stressful situation where it’s like ‘win or go home’ at this point, it was pretty cool to see them have fun and be themselves. Because they are a bunch of goofy guys who enjoy playing volleyball. It was awesome.”

Brown helped lead the charge.

The senior had five kills, two aces, two blocks and an assist in an all-around performance.

“They’re definitely some of my best friends,” Brown said of the squad. “It’s been a lot of fun playing with them this year.”

Said Brown: “We gotta win all of our games this week so this was a good start.”

Junior Nate Brown was key for Big Red as well, with 10 kills and an ace. Senior J.C. Peacock added three kills as Big Red was smooth and efficient in its drive.

“I thought they were able to focus and close out,” Pinto said. “I think that’s a huge thing going forward, getting people to close out games. Because that’s something we struggled with a little bit this year. But hopefully we’re taking the turn here.”