The gym was alive with the sound of sneakers squeaking against the polished lacquer flooring, the thump of volleyballs hitting the ground and smacking into players' interlocked hands. At the center of the gym stood a set of metal poles, tied together by red and white nylon.

A team of boys, dressed in their black shorts, black and white volleyball jerseys, and kneepads, were split up on either side of the net, taking part in some practice sets. An upperclassman sitting with the coach on the bleachers, watching the players practice.