“Bump, Set, Spike!” The Archmere Academy gym has held many memories for the volleyball players. Over the summer, the gym flooded and all the floors had to be replaced. The construction workers had to rip up the old gym floors and replace them. The renovation has been happening since July and still has not wrapped up. The fall athletic teams, particularly the volleyball and cheerleading teams, have had to adjust their seasons. The Archmere Academy women’s volleyball team has been unable to practice and have games in their home gym. They practice at Talley Middle School with no air conditioning so they still have to face a hot gym, just like at home.  

Riley Burke ‘26, a varsity player shares her experience and view of the renovation: “The beginning of preseason was hard not being at Archmere, the excitement of preseason just wasn’t there. But, after a week, we got used to it and now it feels like a second home. We miss the home games and are excited to get back into the Archmere gym.” Just like any change, the girls can make it work, but they are eager to come back home to practice in their gym. 

The date of the first home game after the renovations still has yet to be determined but the girls are excited and hope that there will be a big show out. Varsity middle hitter Bridget Malloy ‘26 shares, “I’m very excited for it because of the environment and the enthusiasm of the student section when the game is happening! When the students are cheering it helps with the team’s momentum throughout the game.” Archmere home games are known for their spirit: they’re well attended and include popular themes. The volleyball team is eager to get back into their gym with the awesome atmosphere that follows.

Update: The Volleyball team was able to take to their home court for the Homecoming game against St. Mark’s on Friday, October 18 on a “Blue Out” night which, in honor of Mr. Michael Johnson, raised money for Colorectal Cancer. Mr. Johnson’s wife, sister, and mother were in attendance for the event. While the court is not finalized, the team will be able to use the court for remaining home games this season.