By Sarah Amador

Goodbyes are never easy, not for anyone. 

April 10 marked “Senior Night” for Granada Hills Charter’s (GHC) boys volleyball seniors. The tradition is kept by high schools in order to celebrate and commemorate the athletes, no matter their role or time on the team.

The evening began lighthearted, with underclassmen presenting and sharing their favorite memories or traits about each senior. Although some took the humorous route, most underclassmen took the time to honor and appreciate each senior for their mentorship and friendship. 

Following the speeches was an intense game versus the Cleveland Cavaliers. Although the sets weren’t easy, the Highlanders reigned victorious with a 3-0 sweep. 

SENIOR NIGHT SMILES: The picture shows all seven seniors lined up as the underclassmen introduce them and take the time to honor them. The Highlanders are all sharing a laugh from the speech, showing how a simple tradition uplifts moods, even in bittersweet moments.

BROTHERHOOD: Senior Troy Tran (front) is shown hugging junior Carter Hill (back), following the end of Hill’s speech. Senior night always demonstrates the lasting bonds between seniors and the underclassmen, despite the age difference. It’s a night to acknowledge and especially appreciate each of the friendships that happened, not the ones that are over. 

6-7: Seniors Troy Tran (left) and Ethen Flores (right) are waiting for the start of a rally, looking as alert and focused as ever. Tran will miss these moments, the drive for the next point and the adrenaline-filled rallies, but it’s the people who mean the most to him. “Something I’m definitely going to miss are my teammates”, Tran said. “They’re the ones who make the team what it is and so many of my special moments and memories include them.”

OPPOSITE IN ACTION: Opposite hitters are a key source in high-speed attacks on the right side of the court during rallies, usually spiking the ball in hopes to “kill” it. Senior Ethen Flores is featured finishing the job, as he reaches for the ball to hit it past Cleveland’s defense. But Flores shares the credit with his team. “Our bond is like a spider’s web; it’s so strong because we’re always together doing something, whether it’s at the gym or just eating out”, Flores said. “It just shows how strong our team is and how strong our mentality is.” 

CONTEMPLATION: Serving the ball gives athletes an extra opportunity to reset in between plays. Senior Ethen Flores is pictured on the edge of the court, positioned perfectly to serve the ball. Although his face is void of most emotion, his eyes reveal a flurry of thoughts. 


WARMING UP: Senior Adriel Dela Cruz is pictured preparing to throw a ball back to his partner. Warm ups are an important part of pregame prep. Athletes hone the skills and techniques they train during practices while finding the optimal mindset for the tough match ahead. 

POKER FACE: A negative mindset has no place on the court. Senior Jamieson Wong is pictured grabbing another ball to continue his warmup, his face void of any thoughts but filled with focus and a calm neutrality. 

THE BACKUP: As the ball flies past seniors Aren Khachikian (center) and Shawn Meza (right), it seems the point is lost. Featured is senior and setter Jamieson Wong (left) saving the day, as he gets into the perfect position to receive the ball and continue the play. The dynamic teamwork didn’t come easy to Wong, but he’s come a long way. “When I began volleyball, I was very self-centered and focused on my own improvement. But I quickly realized that this is primarily a team game; so instead of focusing on ‘how can I get on the court’, I’m always thinking about ‘how can I help my team succeed,’” Wong said.