Photojournalism Volleyball | School

It was Wednesday, the day of the Richmond Volleyball Finals. Anyone remotely involved with Richmond Christian Secondary School knew it.
It even had its own Facebook event.

Richmond Christian Secondary is not a large school; in fact, it is a very tiny school. Not really physically, but the schools population is less than 300 students. So, it is basically a community where everyone knows everyone and volleyball is the main attraction.

You see volleyball at RCSS isn’t just a sport; it is a way of life. I know that sounds super cheesy, but it’s true. The sport of volleyball is celebrated greater than any other sport at RCSS. The volleyball games aren’t just games, they become a gathering place for alumni, parents, siblings, etc. They are entertaining and nerve-wracking all at the same time.

The most anticipated game was the senior boys of McMath vs. Richmond Christian and of course, it was the last. This game would decide if the RCS Eagles have what it takes to be the best volleyball team in Richmond!

When I entered the gym I was in awe of how completely packed the bleachers were. They were filled with anxious parents, siblings, teachers, alumni, and fellow students decked out in red, white, and black (the colours of RCS). I knew this was going to be a game to remember, so I pulled out my camera.

Well, actually I pulled out two cameras. One of the coaches; Mathias Fast, kindly let me use his camera so I could take photos for him as well.

And the game begins…

The bleachers were filled, as I said. Fans of both teams were in attendance. The principal and vice-principal (wearing a poppy) of RCSS are both seen in this photo nervously awaiting the start of the game.

The RCS Eagles warming up with some passing.

Two of the coaches; Coach Buller-Tayler (or more fondly known as “B”) and Coach Daniel Wong observe the team as they warm up. Notice the folded jerseys on the bench ready for the boys to change into before the game.

The boys make their big entrance one by one.

The girls go crazy.

The girls went even crazier when the RCS senior boys did their infamous cheer that has been part of RCS for about the past 5 years. It goes a little something like this: Oo Oongauwah! Who’s Got the Power? Ooo Oongauwah! Who’s Got the Power? Ooo OONGAUWAH! WHO’S GOT THE POWER? *insert mad clapping and cheering here*

It’s an intense game from the get-go.

Coach Mathias Fast and volleyball players on the bench focus intently on the game and their competition.

You know it’s RCS’ gym when it says EAGLES on the floor.

An anxious sibling keeps an eye on his brother, first time volleyball player; Anthony Beutel as he joins his team on the court.

The boys are playing to their full potential. Sliding and skidding to get that volleyball up! They have won the first set. But, have lost the second.

The ref makes a call that doesn’t bode well with the coaches and teammates.

An injured player of McMath gets upset at another call the ref has made. At least the ref is consistent.

Hardcore Eagles fans paint their chest and wave pom poms.

After just losing the second set, the RCS Eagles were able to win the third set by 5 points.

Young RCS Elementary children excited after the third set win!

Thomas Vandermeer jump serves the volleyball to McMath.

A moment of silence and anticipation as an RCS player picks up the volleyball for their next serve. It’s a tie game.

An excellent spike by Jorim Lee will get them 1 point away from winning the entire game. But, McMath wants to win too!

The hardcore EAGLES fans cheering as loud as they possible can for RCS!

Woooo! RCS WINS!

Painted Fans race to go hug the RCS Eagles.

They left a little paint stain on Anthony Beutel’s jersey.

Vice-principal Mr. Au announces the winner of the Richmond Volleyball Finals..

The senior boys rush up to claim their trophy!

HUGE Congratulations to the RCSS Eagles! A small school team that is making it in the big world of volleyball. Have fun at Provincials!