The Sacred Heart University (SHU) men’s volleyball team has been dominant as of late, overcoming top opponents such as New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT) on Feb. 8 and Princeton on Feb 10.
After starting their season 0-6, the Pioneers have won six of their last seven matches to pull within a game of being .500.
“We had a rough start to the season,” said Head Coach Adam Niemczynowicz. “However, the guys kept working hard and were able to find a new identity for themselves.”
Niemczynowicz credits the strong work ethic of his team and finds this to be the driving factor in becoming successful.
“Our mentality is every rep counts, and winning comes from hard work and doing the right things every day. If we can keep this mindset then the winning will be a byproduct of that,” said Niemcynowicz.
Senior Mark Berry acknowledges the challenges that come with playing through a long and emotional season and recognizes what it takes to remain diligent.
“We just need to keep the momentum going,” said Berry. “Just keep doing what’s been working for us, and trying to go undefeated is what we’re looking to do.”
Source: Instagram, @shumvb
The Pioneers’ momentum propelled them towards a win over rival Princeton, who they beat for the first time since 2017.
Senior Patrick Mucherino recognizes the victory as an achievement for the team and believes it is a product of the work everyone has put in.
“The win was huge for us,” said Mucherino. “We’ve played them every year the last four years, always away at Princeton. It’s difficult, always playing a team on the road in front of a big crowd, but getting the win was exciting and it got the ball rolling for us.”
Mucherino has also been of the Pioneers top performers, totaling 31 kills, 8 blocks, 12 digs, and an ace in his performances against Princeton and NJIT.
“I’m playing well right now but there’s also a few things I’m still working on,” said Mucherino. “I want to get the consistency right, but it’ll come with continual play so I’m not too worried about it.”
The Pioneers are looking to build on their recent hot streak and carry that level of play for the remainder of their season.
“We hit a stride, and we’re still reshaping ourselves,” said Niemczynowicz. “Hopefully we continue to grow and learn as we go, but this is a special group and I have confidence in them.”
The Pioneers are back in action at home Friday Feb. 23 vs Saint Francis University (SFU).
