KEVIN NARRO | Valley Morning Star
SAN BENITO — It may only be June, but the high school volleyball season is just around the corner and several area teams began their summer league play earlier this week.
Sixteen teams make up the San Benito summer league, including host San Benito, Harlingen High, Harlingen South and Brownsville Hanna, who represent District 32-6A. Weslaco High, Weslaco East, Lyford and Raymondville are a few other teams involved.
For those that are fans of District 32-6A volleyball, they will get an early look at what the league will present come the fall. San Benito will play Harlingen next week, Hanna will meet San Benito and the Bird Bowl is also on tap.
The Lady Hounds picked up a sweep against Lyford on Friday as they are looking to replace a few of their offensive weapons from last season. Both Crystal Ibarra and Kayleen Reyes are two of those weapons.
Incoming senior libero Sarah Garcia sees the summer league as a way to improve and gear up for the fall.
“We’re working on improving our chemistry and communication,” Garcia said. “We have some new girls on the team so I’m learning how to work with them and we’re getting in sync. We’re letting the younger girls gain some confidence and letting them play their game.”
Harlingen South also picked up a win on Friday against Raymondville. The Lady Hawks missed out on the playoffs last season but have a hand full of returners this year and are eager to right the wrong.
Mya Pearl Aguirre is going to be a junior this coming school year and is going on year three on the varsity.
Aguirre, like Garcia, sees the summer league as a time to stay in shape, and work on techniques.
“Our goal is to get stronger,” Aguirre said. “Right now wins and losses aren’t a big deal but, hey, a win is always good. We’re focusing on the upcoming season. Our serve-receive and blocking are a few things we’re working on right now. Communication is important and that is something we are doing well at. We’re excited that the season is around the corner and we can’t wait, but for now we’re focused on the summer league.”
League games are scheduled every Monday, Wednesday and Friday through June 27 at San Benito High School.