MATTAPOISETT — After reaching the final four in last year’s MIAA Division 3 state tournament, the Old Rochester varsity volleyball team is now ushering in a new season with determination and focus.

“The mindset is to just stay hungry, never be comfortable where you are and always strive to be better,” said Coach James Oliveira. He has led the varsity team for nine seasons, winning a state championship in 2021 and garnering over 100 career wins with Old Rochester.

Last year’s team was ranked as the No. 4 seed heading into the MIAA Division 3 Tournament, with a 17-3 regular season record.

In a final four match, Old Rochester fell to Weston High School by three points in their fifth set.

“We’re ready to go back,” said senior Carly Mello of Mattapoisett.

Oliveira stated that this year’s varsity team is “young” but “very skilled.”

The roster is composed of six seniors, two juniors, six sophomores and one freshman.

“It’s just about learning how to play together,” said Oliveira.

Senior Katelyn Rodrigues of Fairhaven stated that the team is “off to a really good start.”

 “We have a lot of good people coming back and a young team, but a very well-trained team,” she said.

Senior Hadley King of Rochester emphasized that the upperclassmen strive to create a friendly environment for the younger athletes on the team.

“Especially for the younger kids, we’ve made it really welcoming and comfortable for them to be able to come to us, talk to us and be able to have a good time,” she said.

The senior athletes reflected on their limited time left with the team, stating that they intend to work diligently to make it even further in the state tournament this year.

“It makes me want to work harder just to have a good senior year. Just finish strong and do as much as I can,” said senior Hannah Thorell of Mattapoisett.

“Every moment in practice, don’t take it for granted,” said senior Maya Morrison of Rochester.

Oliveira said that he’s proud of the progress the seniors have already made in their time on the team.

“I’ve been happy that they were part of our program, and they’ve already left their mark, so I’m just excited to see what else they’re going to do this year,” he said.

Old Rochester will once again face off against Weston High School on Wednesday, Sept. 3 at 5 p.m. for their first rematch since the state tournament.