After a long, grueling game, the score is locked up at 24-25 in the fifth set. The opponents’ serve forces the Poly boys varsity team into a frenzy. With a frantic dig, the ball is sent flying into the air, but amid all the chaos, setter Jack Gomez tracks the ball’s path and fires a beautiful set back to his opposite hitter for the game-winning score.
A dual-sport athlete with soccer and volleyball, Gomez is no stranger to the field or court, and he knows exactly what it takes to win games.
The combination of composure and experience makes Gomez the anchor of the Poly boys varsity volleyball team, and his presence helped the Poly boys volleyball team make a deep, 3-1 run in CIF this year.
“Jack brings really good leadership to the team through his confidence and experience,” outside hitter junior Sam Andrade noted. “On the court, he’s extremely calm and composed, inspiring confidence in all of us.”
These characteristics stem from Gomez’s arsenal of refined skills. “He is accurate and consistent from setting anywhere on the court, and he is deceptive,” said sophomore libero and outside hitter Reggie Kim. This “deceptive” ability has often determined the end of many long points, and it is a major factor in the team’s success, for the team went 14-10 overall, picking up more wins in the latter half of the season.
Gomez’s most impressive performance came during a dominant 3-1 victory over Flintridge Prep. on Wednesday, March 18. During that match, Gomez excelled in all facets of the game. He posted over 30 assists, completed four kills, and managed two aces, guiding the team to a fashionable win.
“One thing he does exceptionally well that may not be apparent is his game IQ. Jack knows how to control the game and the offense in a really smart way. Gomez’s game IQ makes him an excellent setter and a great player to have on your side.”
Kim added, “Jack is competitive and tries to bring everyone to the same level of competitiveness when he wants to win.”
“When Jack is on the court, it takes a lot of pressure off of the other players because they can execute their skills more easily,” Kim said.
However, Gomez’s impact on the program extends beyond game days. During practice, he is always the one pushing his teammates to excel in drills and refine their craft.
“He offers support and encouragement, especially to the younger guys,” Andrade explained.
As Gomez hangs up his jersey for the final time, he leaves the team with much more than a positive record; he leaves behind a culture of communication and motivation. Gomez has earned the respect of his teammates and created an environment that allows everyone to perform to their best ability. While his pinpoint sets and leading voice will be missed next season, the competitive spirit he has instilled in the program will remain for years to come.
