Ly’s love for volleyball

September 10, 2008. The Guardsman, Arcel Cunan

If it weren’t for her two friends, City College volleyball star libero Amanda Ly would have never played volleyball. During the summer of seventh grade, Ly joined a volleyball league, and her passion for playing hasn’t stopped since.

When she was younger, Ly couldn’t commit to other sports or hobbies. Volleyball was the answer to her problem. “I sucked, but I was determined to play and stick with a sport and get better at it,” said Ly about her first encounter with volleyball.

Before attending City College, Ly attended George Washington High School, where she played as a setter throughout her four years there. Ly also joined club teams the Hawaiian Sunsetters and the San Francisco Juniors, though her height restricted her from obtaining a position as a setter. Measuring just 5 feet 2 inches, Ly happens to be the ideal height for a libero, or defensive specialist, and began training during her club career.

This year will be the second year the 19-year old sophomore is playing for City College as the team’s defensive specialist. Ly also finished as the fourth-best libero of the entire conference of 2007. “Amanda Ly is the best libero in the league. She is amazing,” said Aziza Bledsoe, associate head coach.

As team captain, Ly has already noticed a difference in spirit. With more chemistry and confidence, Ly foresees a great season for herself and her team. Her goals and expectations for the team lean more toward camaraderie, rather than skill. “I honestly think we can make it this year. I have high hopes,” she said. “I want the team to be a big family. I want everyone to help each other both on and off the court.”

On top of a demanding volleyball schedule, Ly juggles a full load of 15 units and is on a mission to add three more. Having to attend classes Monday through Friday, followed by two hour practices, Ly’s days are long and tiresome. Unfortunately, Ly has no choice but to cut down on quality time with friends and family to manage her time as a student and volleyball player.

Though Ly’s volleyball career has been successful, she has no plans to play her beloved sport after this year. Next year, Ly will be parting ways with City College and is hoping to attend California State University in Long Beach, where she wants to enter a modern dance program.

Despite her willingness to move on, volleyball will always be her first love and have a place in her heart. And who knows, maybe volleyball will be a part of her life again some day in the distant future. As the saying goes; “you never get over your first love.”

Check out the volleyball schedule for upcoming games at www.ccsf.edu/ccsframs, show some Ram support for the team, and catch Ly in action on the court.

Volleyball team strives for recongnition in the new season

August 27, 2008. The Guardsman, Arcel Cunan

With only four remaining players from 2007’s roster, City College Volleyball Head Coach Ed Parker has high hopes of creating a reputable program, building on strengths the team already possesses during the highly anticipated 2008 season.

“When most people hear CCSF they automatically think about the football team,” said Parker, who is in his seventh year coaching at City College. “Because the majority of the students attending this school are commuters, it is difficult to get them involved with volleyball,” Parker added.

CCSF is home to the 2007 National Champion football team, which does set the bar pretty high for other sports teams. However, Parker foresees to change the student population and surrounding communities’ obliviousness towards the volleyball program.

Last year’s team ranked fifth out of six in the Coast Conference North Division, falling shy behind Skyline College. The 2007 roster consisted of eight players which included returnees Amanda Ly, Dana Lee, Cynthia Osorio, and Poe Malepeai. All-star Ly, who is also one of the three team captains, was listed fourth in the conference with her digging skills, maintaining an overall percentage of 6.99.

Perfection was not a necessity to make this year’s team. Instead, Parker was not only looking for players who could contribute to the team with basic skills and knowledge, but more importantly the right attitude to learn and play. There are 12 girls on the team who range from ages 17-23 and come from local high schools such as Abraham Lincoln High School, Balboa High School, and Sacred Heart Cathedral Preparatory.

Parker feels the team’s cohesiveness, camaraderie, and leadership will help with practice. The basis of the team’s strength comes from defensive skills.

“The bread and butter of the team will be our defense. The girls are quick and light on their feet,” Associate Head Coach Aziza Bledsoe said.

Parker and Bledsoe both lay out high expectations for their team as they are hopeful to win their conference, and reach the highest level of competition, which is always the goal.

“I would love to see the girls walk out of the gym 100% happy of what they did on the court. If they have any regrets, my job as a coach was not done. If they are happy and proud, that is a job well done,” said Bledsoe. “We will do even better this year. We want to grow every year and build on that.”