In a senior led effort the boys volleyball team defeated the Affton Cougars to win the Class 3 State Championship, behind the play of seniors Matthew Walter, Nathan Biggs and Matt Buffum, the team beat Affton in 2 sets.

“This is probably the greatest feeling anyone can ever feel,” Buffum said. “Winning state is the greatest way anyone can end their senior year. It’s the greatest feeling I’ve ever had and I’m never going to feel this good again.”

It was also an exciting game for junior Matthew Schmittdiel who has been on varsity for three years.

“Since freshmen year we have made it to the quarter and semifinals but to actual be state champions is surreal,” Schmittdiel said. “I’m just happy I could represent my school on such a huge stage.”

There was a rowdy student section at the game which gave the team additional energy.

“The fan section today was amazing,” Schmittdiel said. “It was the biggest turnout we have had all year. Knowing that I had so many of my friends there supporting me made me want to work my hardest and play my best for all of them.”

This year for playoffs, as they have done in the past, most of the team shaved their heads in goofy ways.

“The team haircuts thing has been done before,” Buffum said. “We wanted to keep the tradition going and it also really does bring us together. We all look dumb together and because of that we’re able to come together and win as a team.”