North Bay Haven boys volleyball makes history with state playoff berth
Two years ago, the North Bay Haven boys volleyball program was nothing more than an idea. Today, it has evolved into a team preparing for Bay County's first-ever state playoff game. Head coach Emersonn Cabatu emphasized the importance of cultivating a strong team culture.
“We have to grow the characters of the game, the characters of people that are playing the game, that’s why I call them gentlemen," Cabatu said. "We need more gentlemen in this world, not just boys becoming men. The gentlemen have certain types of character, posture and a way they carry themselves."
In just its second season, the team has exceeded expectations. Cabatu highlighted how close the team came to making the postseason last year, finishing just outside the top eight.
"We were number nine or 10 out of the top eight," Cabatu said. “It is an accomplishment for the boys to dedicate themselves to the craft and make themselves better.”
With a spot in the playoffs secured, the team is focused on continuing its journey. The upcoming match against Bartram Trail is their first test, but Cabatu already has his eyes set on the bigger picture.
"It's just an overwhelming achievement for them and an overwhelming feeling of pride for the guys that are actually going to play this game and try to beat Bartram Trail on Thursday. And then once again, our arch nemesis, Gulf Breeze hopefully, and maybe even Choctawhatchee," Cabatu added.
Key Players
As the team gears up for postseason play, several key players have stood out in their contributions throughout the season.
Senior Fischer Pittman has been a standout on offense as Cabatu praised the senior for his growth.
“Fischer Pittman has just been a stalwart of a workforce for our scoring prowess," he said. "His ability to bring the ball down and his development to not only hit the ball hard, but now with intellect and more precision—that’s really added on to our game this year."
The middle hitter, Graham Brackett, has also been crucial to the team’s success. After recovering from a hand injury earlier in the season, Brackett’s return to form has given the team much-needed flexibility.
“Graham Brackett has been an amazing addition to both last year and this year. He really didn’t come about three or four weeks ago during our trip down to Jacksonville, and what an impact he’s become,” Cabatu said. “Now I have the flexibility to move him into different positions to really maximize both Fischer and his talent.”
Defensively, Max Le has made strides. A soccer player, Le’s background has contributed to his footwork and ability to read the ball.
“Now we just have to blend in his ability to use his hands and arms in a game of volleyball. He has been a defensive asset that enhances the defense a little bit more," Cabatu said.
The road to the playoffs has been filled with a commitment to the program’s values. Cabatu is quick to acknowledge that the success of the team is a collective effort.
North Bay Haven will host Bartram Trail on Thursday, April 30, at 6 p.m.
Adebanji Bamidele is a sports reporter for the Panama City News Herald. He can be reached at abamidele@gannett.com or through X, formerly known as Twitter, @AdebanjiBamide1.
This article originally appeared on The News Herald: North Bay Haven volleyball makes history with playoff berth
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