ATHLETICS
NEW IN THE GYM: VOLLEYBALL AND CONDITIONING Bullis Athletics added two new sports offerings to its program this fall. Girls volleyball and a strength and conditioning program met with great enthusiasm and participation. Both additions have a strong future ahead.
Volleyball Volleyball Coach Cheryl Weaver came to Bullis with an impressive resume as three-time All-American at Long Beach State University, two-time Big West Conference Player of the Year and a
member of the USA Volleyball team. “My first objective was to raise the girls’ volleyball knowledge, since most had never played before,” she says. “Along with teaching them the fundamentals, I also wanted them to become comfortable playing while learning to enjoy the game rather than worry about wins and losses.” Assistant Coach Leslie Tamara was also key to the development of the program. An ISL-competitive JV team, a developmental
program and a Middle School program attracted more than 50 girls to the sport. The JV team’s 8-1 fall record indicates its progression and hard work. “I look forward to increasing the popularity of the sport here and expect us to continue to be competitive and battle against the top teams in the ISL,” says Coach Weaver. Junior Hayley Sanders agrees. “We adapted really well to the sport and had an amazing season. I can’t wait to play next year at the varsity level!”
Strength & Conditioning Al Kallay started at Bullis in the spring of 2016 after the completion of the new fitness center in the Athletic Center. He works with each coach— Middle School, JV and Varsity— to design a specific training
regimen that will benefit the athletes, whether in-season or during the off-season. “The thing I most enjoy is developing students’ skills and encouraging a strong work ethic,” says Coach Kallay. “I like to build a strong foundation that every student athlete can benefit from, regardless of the sport.” As the program grows, he hopes to also add parents and staff to support their fitness interests as well. Football and baseball Head Coach Pat Cilento praises Coach Kallay’s dedication to Bullis’ student-athletes. “He’s helped them to perform at peak levels, and helped them understand more about nutrition, proper training techniques, rehab and speed. Al is a very valuable asset to the Bullis community.”
Above, Leilani Moten ’17 prepares to spike the ball in the homecoming match vs. National Cathedral School. At right, Al Kallay trains student athletes in the fitness center.
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