Every team in every sport always has the same ultimate goal: to win a championship. Over the past 10 years, Florida Gulfside Volleyball Academy has shown its prowess in tournaments across the country.
The Naples-based club volleyball program has earned several bids to compete at the USA Volleyball Junior Nationals, the country's most prestigious junior volleyball tournament, racking up eight top 3 finishes. But the 13U Prime team had their eyes set on bringing home a first-place trophy.
"We went to Nationals last year, but it was really hard," said Gulfside's right-side hitter Sienna Strickland. "Like, we didn't get that far."
This year, it was a different story. 13U Prime cruised through the four-day event all the way to the finals.
"I was a little bit intimidated, but I was like, 'We got this. We're the best team there,'" said middle hitter Sophie Fong.
The tourney was only open to teams who qualified, and of the 64 squads at the Dallas-based competition, FGVA proved that they were the best. The girls went 11-1 overall and made history.
"I was like, 'No way,'" said right-side hitter Mia Berryman. "We just did it! It didn't really kick in until way later on because you're just in the mindset of winning."
It finally sank in: They are officially national champions, winning the first USAV Jr Volleyball National Title in SWFL.
"Thank God, you know, all glory to God," said Gulfshore head coach Miguel Dapena. "I pointed up. I hugged my boss. I know this was a dream come true."
"We were so excited," Strickland said. "There was yelling. We ran on the court. We all started hugging."
"Everyone was crying happy tears. It's so exciting because we never had that kind of experience," said setter Chiara Gagliano.
The team's hard work, dedication and talent are reflected in their 68-11 record this season, but it's their strong bond that made them champions.
"Whenever we work as a team, we're always good because we trust each other," Gagliano said.
"We're a family over here," Dapena said. "And I think that's key for their success."