Serving up Resilience (How west Broward’s girl volleyball turn challenges into confidence)

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Air Time: Senior Dani Mayea spiking the ball over the net with her teammates Sabrina Duran, London Alcea, Hanna Lysfjord, Melody De Hoyos, and Valentina Friedberg backing her up against Calvary Christian. The Bobcats would fall to the Eagles 3-0.
Photo Courtesy of Jayla Castillo

By: Victoria Carmona

The West Broward High School girls volleyball team has shown that this season is all about growth, resilience, and an unyielding drive to compete. Under new head coach Michael Marsans, the Bobcats entered the year with hopes of a deep postseason run.

Although the 2025 season opened with two tough losses, the team quickly rebounded, stringing together four consecutive wins that set the tone for the rest of their campaign. They closed out the year with a 13-7 record, with their defeats coming against some of Broward County’s top programs. Each setback only fueled their determination, as the Lady Bobcats consistently responded with focus and heart. While their record may not capture their level of play, the team takes pride in a season that showcased true grit and a strong finish.

“I feel like this team compares to last season because we can put teams away quicker and play with more confidence. Last year we struggled to finish strong, but now we stay focused and disciplined from start to finish,” said senior right side hitter Hanna Lysfjord.

A defining moment in their season came in a 3-0 win against Western High School, one of their toughest district rivals. From the first serve, West Broward set the tone with aggressive swings and sharp defense. The Bobcats controlled the pace of the match, dominating at the net and showing impressive communication throughout. The energy on the court was electric as the team rallied around one another, reflected in the 75-57 point differential.

“The Western game was one of the most exciting matches we have played this season. From the very first serve, the energy was high, and everyone stayed focused on every point,” said sophomore outside hitter Melody De Hoyos. “We made big plays at the net, executed our passes and sets, during the long rallies. I am proud of our team. We came together, supported each other, and showed what we are truly capable of.”

Coach Marsans also emphasized individual growth alongside team success. This comes from practice on ball control and passing with game-like situations at the end of practice. Players like De Hoyos and libero Valentina Friedberg are young sophomores who have contributed heavily to the team.
“Every practice we focus on the little details like ball control, passing, and decision-making. That is what builds confidence and consistency. Seeing players like De Hoyos and Valentina step up shows how much our hard work is paying off,” said Marsans.

With experience, leadership, and a blend of young talent, West Broward has set the standard for what it means to play with heart and determination, rather than just competing. The Bobcats opened their playoff run with a dominant 3-0 sweep over Hialeah Gardens, showing the teamwork and energy that defined their season. Despite falling 3-0 to Doral Academy in the district semifinals, the team left the court with their eyes already set on next year. De Hoyos reflected on the team’s optimistic mindset heading into the future.

“If we keep improving, stay focused, and play as a team, I think we can make a deep run in districts next season. If everyone puts in the work, I am confident we can surprise a lot of people,” said De Hoyos.
am confident we can surprise a lot of people,” said De Hoyos.