The school’s new beach volleyball team hosted its first annual tryouts Jan. 18-20.

Alex Adishian ’23, who recently committed to play beach volleyball at the University of California, Berkeley, said she is glad to finally play the sport she loves at school.

“I’m really excited to be a part of the [first season] of beach volleyball at HW, especially since it’s now an official CIF sport,” Adishian said. “We currently practice at Will Rogers State Beach, and it’s been super fun meeting new girls who also have the same love for beach volleyball. We’ve been scrimmaging a lot during practice and getting reps in with many different partners so that we can best prepare for in-game situations. Our coaches are amazing, and they have been supportive of our growth and development. I can not wait to start competition in a few weeks.”

Izzy Hyman ’22, who used to play indoor volleyball for the school, said she now plays beach volleyball because she thinks it is a more relaxed environment.

“After I decided to quit indoor I missed being part of a team, so I was super excited to hear that I could be a part of [the school’s] first beach volleyball team,” said Hyman. “I’m new to beach volleyball, but so far I really like it because it’s so nice to be able to go to the beach after school. It’s also a lot more laid back which is great considering I’m just playing for fun.”

Megan Outcalt ’22 said playing for the school’s beach volleyball team allows her to meet new friends on the team.

“The team is mostly freshman so far, but it’s great to be able to meet people from different grades at practice,” Outcalt said. “In preparation for our first matches, my friends and I have been practicing on our own so we can be more ready for our upcoming competitions.”

Claire Paul ’23 said she decided

to join the team because she believes it will be a fun and unique experience.

“I have not played organized volleyball for a few years, but I am super excited to try playing beach volleyball,” Paul said. “Since this a new experience for me, I am enjoying every moment playing with my teammates and can not wait for our first season to finally start.”

The beach volleyball team will play its first match of its inaugural season against Marymount High School at Will Rogers State Beach on March 1.