Finger Lakes Men’s Volleyball Eyes Historic Three-Peat in 2025
CANANDAIGUA, N.Y. - The Finger Lakes Community College Men's Volleyball team is preparing for another season with championship aspirations following back-to-back NJCAA National Invitational Championships in 2023 and 2024. With second-year head coach Steven Verbridge at the helm, the Lakers are poised to build on their success while embracing the challenges of maintaining their national dominance. This year's squad features a blend of returning sophomores, promising freshmen, and a unified commitment to excellence that could make 2025 the program's best season yet.
The Lakers return four sophomores, Bryce Nickson, Evan Lukasiewicz, Aaron Hennessy, and Marc Williams, who bring vital leadership and experience to the court. Having faced the pressure of elevating an already championship-level program last year, these players have proven their abilities as leaders on and off the court. They aim to guide the incoming class of nine freshmen—Cole Thomas, Jack Donovan, Grant Walker, Dominick Alvarado, Jake Seklar, Braden Whitcomb, Darin Conrad, Joe Massey, and Israel Acevedo—as they transition to collegiate-level play.
Under the guidance of assistant coach Daina Marsh and supported by returning team manager Payton Stoddard and first-year manager Michelina Williams, the Lakers are prepared for another season of tests.
Coach Verbridge outlined the team's expectations and goals for the season, stating, "Our goal is to continue to grow this program. We lost a lot of sophomore leadership, but we have 50% of our starters back and talent that could make this the best team FLCC has ever had. We expect to come to work every day to improve with one mission: 'What is best for the team, always." He highlighted the team's defensive prowess as a cornerstone of their strategy, noting the athletes' exceptional ability to make game-changing plays and their dedication to keeping the ball in the air at all costs.
The returning sophomores are not only critical on the court but also serve as mentors for the freshmen, guiding them through the transition to college volleyball. "Their leadership is astounding," Verbridge said. "They understand what the freshmen are experiencing and are committed to guiding them to even greater heights. These sophomores have embraced their roles as teammates and leaders, ensuring that the freshmen feel supported and prepared to contribute to the team's success."
Defense will remain the team's primary focus as they prepare for the upcoming season. Verbridge emphasized its importance, saying, "Defense, Defense, Defense, Serving, Defense! Our success hinges on passing and blocking. This group is talented and deep, and we push one another to grow with the mindset of 'What is best for the team, always'" This philosophy is instilled throughout the program, from players to coaches to managers, creating an environment where everyone works together to achieve collective success.
As the 2025 season approaches, the Lakers are eager to showcase their unique style of play, athleticism, unorthodox strategies, and a team-first mentality. "We're one of the best-kept secrets in the region," Verbridge said. "Our players and staff embrace adversity, push each other forward, and embody a true team-first mentality. We're looking forward to a fun and competitive season"
With a strong track record and a roster filled with potential, the Lakers aim to continue their championship legacy and make another run in 2025 with the National Invitational taking place on the Lakers home court this season.