Background: Girls Varsity Volleyball
The girls’ varsity volleyball team played ten games this season, five of which were home games. The largest turnout came on Senior Night, yet even then, the bleachers were far from full. At the beginning of most games, the audience consisted primarily of parents, with students and faculty trickling in later—often only once matches became intense.
While players remain focused on giving their full effort regardless of the crowd, the lack of early support is concerning. Volleyball is one of the main sports played by girls, and high school athletics thrive on community encouragement. For seniors, these games mark the final chapter of their high school volleyball careers and deserve recognition. Juniors are nearing their final season and want to cherish each moment. Sophomores are developing into future leaders, and freshmen—especially those playing varsity for the first time—need reassurance that they belong. Support at games validates every athlete’s commitment and effort.
Causes of Low Attendance
Academics are understandably a priority, and many students juggle homework, extracurriculars, and personal responsibilities. Still, finding time to support school teams—even briefly—can make a meaningful difference. Another major factor may be a lack of promotion. Volleyball games are often advertised only through social media, which limits visibility. Posters, morning announcements, and school-wide emails could help increase awareness.
There is also a perception among students that volleyball is “less exciting” than sports like basketball or soccer. However, those who attend games witness diving saves, powerful spikes, and intense rallies—moments that often draw crowds later in matches. The excitement is there; it just needs an audience.
Player Perspectives
This issue isn’t just felt by one player—it’s shared across the team. To better understand the impact, several varsity players were interviewed about how crowd size affects their performance and energy.
Q: Can you describe the difference between playing in a loud gym versus an empty one? A: When I play in a loud gym, I feel like I have to match the noise—I play stronger and hustle for every ball. In a quiet gym, there feel like fewer stakes, and it’s harder to keep that same intensity.
Q: Can you recall a home game with low attendance? How did it make you feel?A: On Senior Night, we were really hyped and thought we would win, but when our student section was mostly parents, I could feel our energy drop, and we ended up losing.
Q: What changes could increase attendance?A: Having the school mascot at games or advertising our schedule more could really help.
Interview: Lexi Edrosa & Camila Merizalde (9th Grade)
Lexi: Playing in a loud gym feels exciting and motivating—you want to play harder because people are cheering for you. In an empty gym, it feels dull and disappointing, almost lonely.
Camila: I feel more motivated to play well in a full gym. In an empty one, my energy drops a lot.
Q: What could improve turnout?A: More emails and better promotion of home games, especially for important matches like Senior Night.
Interview: Ash White (12th Grade)
Q: How does crowd size affect performance?A: A packed student section makes a huge difference. The energy boosts us and helps us play with more intensity. When the gym is empty, we have to create that energy ourselves, which is much harder.
Q: Why do you think attendance is low?A: Volleyball season starts early in the school year, before school spirit really builds. Basketball starts later, when energy is already high. We also don’t get as much promotion.
Q: Possible solutions?A: Creating an Instagram account earlier in the season and posting consistently about home games could really help.
Appreciation for Supportive Students
Despite low attendance, the students and faculty who do show up make a noticeable impact. Even a small, loud crowd can change the energy of a match. Their presence does not go unnoticed and is deeply appreciated by the team.
Effects on the Team & School Community
School sports are about more than winning—they build connection, pride, and unity. When teams feel supported, performance improves, morale rises, and school spirit strengthens across the community. Empty bleachers send the opposite message.
Student support at volleyball games matters. It motivates players, strengthens school spirit, and promotes equality among sports. Showing up—even briefly—can change a game. As a school community, we have the power to uplift our athletes simply by filling the bleachers and making noise. Volleyball deserves the crowd.