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| Alyssa Torpy graduated in 2008 and is the all-time career leader in assists. She currently is the assistant coach at Penfield H.S. |
I became a part of the Penfield Girls Volleyball program when I took the Junior Varsity head coaching position for the 2009 season. I wasn’t looking to coach right away, as I was trying to adjust to life after college and begin a career. Somehow, my name was passed along to Varsity Coach Andrew Solomon as a potential candidate for the position. I had gone to Solomon’s summer volleyball camps as a younger player, so we had already developed a good relationship. Despite my initial hesitation, he talked me into taking the JV position. While with them, the girls achieved many successes-including an undefeated season and a tournament championship win. During the summer of 2010, I decided to step down as the head JV coach to pursue a career outside of volleyball. However, I decided to remain in the program as an assistant to the varsity team, which is where I am today.
I love these girls to pieces. I consider them family members. Often times I joke around that they are my children. Not only do they feel comfortable to approach me on the court for advice, I often find myself being there for them off the court as well. This year’s group was particularly special to me, seeing as how they were members of my JV team. It was bittersweet to see them play their way through the program; however I am excited about getting to know the younger players and watching them develop throughout their years at Penfield.
From the moment I took on the JV job, I knew that I wanted to treat the players in a similar manner that I was treated as a college athlete. I knew if I set high expectations for their play and behavior from the start, they were bound to be successful. We consistently set goals throughout the season, knowing that there was always something more that we could accomplish. I believe that their “never settle” attitude is a huge part of the program’s success, especially this season as the team finally won its first ever state championship. This year’s team reminded me a lot of my senior season at Fredonia, as it was comprised of many experienced seniors who knew what it took to win. I would constantly compare the teams when talking with the girls, telling them how successful and unforgettable my senior year was at Fredonia, and how theirs could end in the same fashion if they were willing to put in the hard work.
The state tournament was a weekend that I will never forget. I feel so honored to have witnessed the level of inspired volleyball being played by not only us but our opponents. Leading up to the final, I remember telling the girls that this season had been a fairy tale, and they had a chance to write their own ending. And that they did. The team won their first state title in a thrilling five-game fashion. I was so proud in the way the girls battled point after point with such emotion and determination. It was by far, one of the greatest volleyball moments I have ever been a part of. I am incredibly grateful to be a part of this program and looking forward to seeing what the future has in store!