“We came in a little more nervous than usual for this game, considering what went on last time,” Emerson Lovell ’12 said about the Staples Volleyball’s team mindset heading into their rematch against rival Ridgefield on May 4.

The good news for Staples fans is that one would never have known the team was nervous since they turned in their best performance all year. Defeating Ridgefield in three straight games meant a great deal for the team’s confidence, as they were able to stay undefeated 15 games into the season.

“This win put us in the best position for both FCIACs and States. The team really played well today,” Coach Jon Shepro said.

A few games back, in Staples’ first clash with Ridgefield, drama ensued after the Staples victory. Claims and allegations were made against Staples players who were accused of stealing various Ridgefield equipment, including a few jerseys. Those matters may have been addressed and dealt with, but that isn’t saying that Ridgefield didn’t have a little bit of a vendetta.

“We knew that Ridgefield was going to come after us and draw blood after the incident. It’s a good thing our team played amazing today,” Captain Jonah Aelyon ’12 said after the victory.

The match included various highlights from the Staples team, including an especially ferocious performance from one of the team’s leaders, David Kalb ’12.

“David told me today that he had a 36-inch vertical, but when the ball is 40 inches above his head, I think he gets to it. He played phenomenal today,” Coach Shepro said.

For such a tough opponent as Ridgefield, Staples was able to showcase their dominance over the rest of the FCIAC.

When asked about the team’s success, Captain Andrew Fishman ’12 could only say, “This team does not know how to lose.”