St. Francis Volleyball Preps for Holy Court at Christian Brothers

   SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The St. Francis volleyball team is prepping this week for the annual Holy Court matchup at Christian Brothers by turning up the volume, literally. The St. Francis Gym has become a concert zone with the team practicing to loud music to simulate the crowd noise expected Thursday at CB.

   “It is so much fun,” said senior Ali Koumelis about the atmosphere at the Holy Court game. “It is so nerve-wracking and it is so loud you cannot hear yourself think.”

   The teams meet on Thursday starting with the freshmen at 4 p.m. with the JV and varsity to follow. The game is expected to be a sellout.

   “It is a great rivalry and tradition,” said Koumelis. “It is always the best game of the year other than the state playoffs.”

   Ranked fourth in the state and 31st in the nation according to MaxPreps, the Troubadours (14-3) have won each of the last four meetings in the rivalry. Christian Brothers is 10-2 on the season.

   “It is really important,” said Koumelis. “This game is not worth anything other than bragging rights and winning. Especially in my senior year I just want to end it with a win.’

   There will be donation collection and a raffle to benefit Albie Aware Inc. The mission of Albie Aware Inc. is to save more lives and empower people with breast cancer through awareness, education and support.