For junior Martino Suta, volleyball has been a way to bond with his friends since he started playing in eighth grade.
“I started playing volleyball in eighth grade because all of my friends were playing it,” Suta said. “Since then, my friends and I have stuck together and still play together now.”
Suta and his teammates have shown real growth this season, with the boys going undefeated in the section and winning their section title. On Tuesday, the Highlanders shut out Gateway in the first round of WPIAL playoffs.
Junior Ayush Rai can attest to Suta’s improvement.
“Martino has shown a lot of growth throughout the years. He is a really well-developed player, and is one of our best teammates,” Rai said.
Junior Pritam Neopaney sees Suta as an important person to have on a team.
“Martino is a good friend, and he’s a good teammate because he holds everyone accountable. He is a really key player and you cannot match the spirit he brings to the team. He’s just someone you want to have around,” Neopaney said.
With all of the games played and hours of practice that have happened since eighth grade, Suta said he can look back on these past years fondly.
“Since I started playing, it has been a great time. I love the memories that I have not only made for myself, but also with my teammates, as well,” Suta said.
Rai is hopeful for the future success that Suta can achieve.
“Pritam Neopaney, Martino Suta, and myself are the only three juniors on the team, and I think Martino has the highest chance of continuing volleyball after high school in our class. His work does not go unnoticed,” Rai said.
Neopaney also enjoys the presence that Suta brings.
“On the bus rides to the away games, I always sat with Martino and it was so much fun to get hyped for the game, and then celebrating after our wins,” Neopaney said.
As the team readies for its second-round playoff game, Suta and his teammates know their connection can help them win.
“Our bond is very strong. That’s why we play so well. Our chemistry is there on the court when it is time to show up,” Suta said.
The team will face off against Mount Lebanon at home Thursday in the second round of WPIAL playoffs.
