Exeter Volleyball Team

Gaige Gabriel was in the spotlight on Thursday night, but the 6'8 Penn State commit always emphasizes the importance of his teammates.  Gabriel, Chase Nugent, and Jack Forry have helped the Eagles become one of the elite volleyball teams in Pennsylvania.  The trio has known each other since seventh grade.  "We're very close," Nugent told SV Sports' Paul Roberts.  The Eagles improved to (9-0) after sweeping Wilson (25-6, 25-19, 25-14) in Reiffton.  Gabriel had six kills to set the school's all-time record with 1,178.  "It was awesome. It was a cool experience, fun crowd," he replied.  Gabriel surpassed Pieter Olree who played professionally after attending Ohio State.  In an interesting twist, Olree's brother got to witness the milestone in person.  Andrew Olree is the Bulldogs' head coach.  Exeter is ranked #1 in the state in Class 2A.  "I think we can win the whole thing," stated Forry.  The 5'11 setter finished with 28 assists and four aces against Wilson.  Forry has piled up 1,696 career assists including 1,120 a season ago.  The Eagles went (22-2) last year.  Lower Dauphin knocked off Exeter 3-0 in the District 3-2A championship and 3-1 in the state semifinals.  The Falcons have won three straight PIAA titles.  If the Eagles run into Lower Dauphin this year, Nugent is confident that there will be a different outcome.  "We're not losing this time, just put it that way," he said.  Nugent, a 6'1 outside hitter, provided ten kills and two aces versus Wilson.  He was voted the 2023 Berks County Player of the Year.  Gabriel, who is a member of the U19 national team, is having fun during his senior season with his friends.  "We try to harp on the positive things in game. We enjoy ourselves," he said.