After several years of being part of the club ranks in high schools, boys volleyball has now emerged as a newly-sanctioned sport this spring within the Utah High School Activities Association. And, there’s plenty of buzz around the addition to the spring sports lineup.

“There is such a great excitement around boys volleyball in the state of Utah and it’s great to see it finally making its appearance underneath the high school umbrella,” said Bountiful High boys volleyball coach Sarah Chism. 

Viewmont High coach Karl Lippa agreed. “There’s a lot of excitement among the kids for this first year of being sanctioned and they are beyond grateful for the opportunity.”

Things got under way in the area with Davis and Bountiful facing off March 5 and Woods Cross competing against Park City.

The Redhawks beat the Darts 25-15, 25-20, 22-25, 25-17. In the loss, Davis’ Chase Valentine recorded a double-double of 10 kills and 15 digs. 

The Wildcats varsity team lost to the Miners 27-29, 25-14, 24-26, 25-20, 15-9. “It was a battle and one of the longest matches I have ever coached,” said WXHS head coach Josey Hilton. There were a lot of good things happening and the future of Woods Cross boys volleyball looks very bright.” Hilton highlighted outside hitter Khang Tran for his aggressiveness and leadership on the court. “He was also instrumental in rallying the JV and varsity in cheering for our sophomore team, bringing tons of energy into the gym.”

In the JV match between Woods Cross and Park City, the Wildcats lost 25-13, 25-5, 10-15, 15-10. “There was a lot of learning and trying different rotations,” Hilton said, particularly noting Lockwood Smoot’s contributions. “Lockwood is a natural leader and always full of positivity. He is always looking for ways to improve in whatever activity he is participating in at the time and ways to help where he can. We are super thankful to have him on our team.”

The sophomore match between WXHS and PCHS went to five set with Woods Cross winning 25-16, 15-25, 15-11, 16-17, 15-11. “It was super fun and super intense with loads of learning,” said Hilton. “Weston Nelson played a vital role, doing a great job at guarding the net. He was also strategic on his attack placement and delivered the most points tonight. We are so excited to witness his growth as the season continues!”

“There is general curiosity and intrigue and I think anyone who attends will find the games to be very athletic, fast-paced and exciting to watch!” said Chism.