On April 11, 2025, the Verrado High School Varsity Viper boys volleyball team delivered a commanding performance, sweeping Washington High School 3-0 in a home game that showcased teamwork, skill, and sheer determination.
From the opening serve, the Vipers set the tone. Senior outside hitter Cole Doerr, wearing No. 13, opened the game with a clean shot over the net that Washington couldn’t return, giving Verrado the first point of the match. The Vipers quickly built momentum, with No. 9 Jason Mamaradlo slamming a spike to increase the lead to 4-0.
Verrado’s defensive skills shined. No. 11 Alexander Marrero made a highlight-reel dive to save a low ball, passing it to a teammate who sent it back over the net, helping push the score to 7-3. Washington tried to respond with an aggressive spike, but Mamaradlo and No. 12 Jaylen Tolliver blocked the shot at the net, frustrating their opponent’s offense.
Although Verrado briefly lost possession after hitting the ball out of bounds, Washington struggled to capitalize. A series of unforced errors by Washington allowed Verrado to extend its lead to 12-6. The Vipers then went on a scoring run, surging ahead 18-8 with consistent serves and coordinated attacks.
As the first set neared its conclusion, Verrado scored four consecutive points, widening the gap to 22-10. Washington failed to find a rhythm, hitting the ball out of bounds three times in a row. Verrado clinched the first set 25-12 with strong serves and strategic teamwork.
The second set began with Washington in possession, but an early foul gave Verrado a free point. That mistake set the tone for the remainder of the match.
No. 1 Zachary Doerksen delivered a perfect set to No. 11 Cole Sanders, who powered a spike past Washington defenders for another Verrado point. Shortly after, both teams called separate huddles to regroup and refocus.
When play resumed, No. 14 Alfredo Alvarado Olague thrilled the crowd with a diving save, recovering a tough shot and sending it back over the net for yet another Verrado point. His effort brought the crowd to its feet and further deflated Washington’s morale.
Midway through the fourth quarter, the match was paused briefly due to an injury on the Washington side. After play resumed, both teams battled in extended rallies, but Verrado consistently outmatched their opponent.
By the end of the fourth quarter, the Vipers sealed the deal with a 26-14 win in the final set, completing their 3-0 sweep of Washington High.
“This team plays with heart,” said Verrado’s head coach [Coach Name, if available]. “They’re focused, disciplined, and they trust each other. That’s what makes them hard to beat.”
With this win, Verrado continues to build momentum as they approach the second half of the season. Their strong performance on both ends of the court suggests they’ll be a tough contender in upcoming matchups.
