The Columbia Heights High School (CHHS) boys’ volleyball team made its first appearance in Heights history this year after being announced last year. This is part of a big change in Minnesota as boys’ volleyball is now officially recognized as a sanctioned and competitive high school sport by the Minnesota State High School League (MSHSL) following a 2023 vote by the Minnesota Boys High School Volleyball Association, of which Columbia Heights Public Schools (CHPS) Activities Director Jake Henderson is a member. This spring was the team’s inaugural season, and with a roster of 23 players, including 13 playing for the varsity squad, it began with a bang.
The Heights community has also played a large part in the making of this new team with the Columbia Heights Athletic boosters helping raise money for the expenses. With a final record of 7 wins and 11 losses, there has been much to both celebrate and look forward to improving upon in future seasons. There were many tough matches against DeLaSalle, Richfield, St. Anthony, Fridley and more, but due to the team’s sizzling chemistry and huge effort, the stands have been full and loud like no other sport this school year. Ultimately, while the season didn’t result in advancing to sections or state, the fact that so many of the players were relatively new to the game proves that the wins earned were vital and impressive.
In addition to the team’s rapport and work ethic, another important factor in making the first boys’ volleyball season a success at CHHS was the coaching and managing. Led by CHHS alumnus and former girls’ volleyball captain Elizabeth Brubakken, the Head Coach—along with Assistant Coach Duc Nguyen and a slate of student managers—has been the much-needed glue of the group. A combination of Heights pride, intense inspiration on the sidelines and an honest, inviting approach has made the team tight-knit from the get-go.
“I like how the coaches are very supportive about everything,” boys’ volleyball player Jose Ortiz (9) said. “Even if you make a mistake, the coaches help you learn from them and become a better player.”
Off the court, many of the players are close friends, helping to create a closer chemistry between them while on the court. The team also shows a lot of heart in their games, putting a ton of sweat and dedication out on the court, all with the support and care from a positive and carefully cultivated group dynamic.
“My favorite part about playing for this team is the compassion and support that is given to me by my teammates, as well as the chemistry that we all share as a team”. boys volleyball player Davion Harris (12) said.
This camaraderie and optimism have led to a number of exciting and pulse-pounding games, including a hard-earned 3-2 win over Richfield on April 10 and a comeback victory over Brooklyn Center on May 14 after losing their first bout against them just a few weeks prior. And while senior star players like Justin Alvarez Merchan and Bryan Estrada Riera will be missed, up-and-comers Lyno Baldovinos Miranda (9) and Anthony Robles Celleri (10) along with juniors Artur Serdiuk and Carlos Chicaiza Sacta are surely poised for greatness next spring.
From the celebratory opening home game featuring CH-emblazoned mini-volleyballs and volleyball-decorated cookies to the more recent night celebrating and honoring the teachers of Columbia Heights High School, it’s clear that boys’ volleyball is here to stay at CHHS, and it’s made quite the impression in its short first run of games. This new program shows a lot of promise for the future of the Columbia Heights boys’ volleyball, continuing to create an exciting and supportive environment for athletes, families and fans alike.
