By Cali Bagby

Head Coach Dave ‘Chico’ Chicovsky uses the word fun, excited and happy as he describes the Lobos volleyball team.

Chicovsky has several reasons already this year for rejoicing. For one, Isabelle Tetu, a former Lopez School student and volleyball player, has returned to the island as an assistant coach.

“The players really respond to her coaching techniques,” said Chicovsky.

Tetu uses the skills she learned playing college volleyball to enhance the team like  pushing the girls in strength conditioning for endurance.

“There’s always going to be taller teams and harder hitters,” said Tetu. “But you can always finish strong if you have enough energy.”

The other reason, this season is special is because Chicovsky has been a coach for 30 years, but this is his first year back coaching after a four year absence.

“I’m excited to be back,” said Chicovsky. “The team is pretty young. It’s pre-season right now, so we’re just going back to the basics.”

Out of the fifteen players, three seniors are on the team this year including two captains Marina Steinbrueck and Sarah Stanley.

For Chicovsky all the long nights of practicing lead up to the thrill of game time for the Lobos, part of the Northwest B League.

“I like the whole game time atmosphere,” said Chicovsky. “Watching the girls have fun and succeed.”

And for Chicovsky, succeeding is about enjoying the game and building their volleyball skills.

Last year the Lobos went to state and this year could be another winning season.

The coaches are evaluating the talent on the team and who should play what position.

“They’re an incredibly scrappy team,” said Tetu. “They never quit.”