Pali Spikers Hold Alumni Game

By KENE IZUCHUKWU

When the Palisades High boys’ volleyball team won last year’s City championship, it returned to prominence one of the winningest programs in the state. Now the school plans to recognize and celebrate its volleyball tradition with an alumni reunion and game Saturday, April 4, in the gym. The event, billed as both a reunion and fundraiser, will bring together over five decades of volleyball alumni, many of whom have gone on to become some of the most successful players in the sport. Along with their former teammates, several of the best athletes ever to don a Dolphins jersey will have the opportunity to challenge the reigning champion varsity squad. During the event, Palisades will honor its five Olympic gold medal recipients: Ricci Luyties, Chris Marlowe, Steve Salmons, Dave Saunders and Kent Steffes, along with 2008 Hall of Fame inductee Randy Stoklos. Former coach Howard Enstedt will also be recognized. In his 30 years on the bench Enstedt guided Palisades to eight section titles and is credited with starting the volleyball program as a club. “I can’t take all the credit, because if you have the talent, then you win,” he said. The program has always bred talented players, including 2008 graduate and Post Cup winner Scott Vegas, currently playing for UCLA. “It’s going to be great playing with these legendary players who have totally different styles,” Vegas said. “It is an honor and a great fundraiser for the present program.” Steffes is looking forward to the event and the chance to rekindle previous relationships. “I’ve been able to get into contact with a bunch of people who have gone to Pali and played at Pali,” he said. “I’ve gotten a few calls and heard from some people that I haven’t heard from in a decade or so. This was such a great job for all the people who put this together; it’s going to be fun.” Stoklos plans to attend and play on the alumni team. During his high school career, Stoklos’ teammates included fellow gold medalists Saunders, Luyties and Salmons. He looks forward to reuniting with many of the former players: “It’s such a unique thing that Palisades has so many gold medalists in just one sport. It’s going to be a great time and a great opportunity to rejoice in Palisades volleyball.” Current coach Chris Forrest is excited about past meeting present for the first time. “I feel honored to be a part of such a successful volleyball program,” he said. “Just seeing some of the names that have come through here humbles me.” The gym doors open to the public at 7 p.m. Tickets will be $10 for adults and $5 for kids 12 and under. All proceeds go to support the boys’ volleyball program. There will be a serving contest for prizes, raffles and a silent auction. Everyone in the community is invited to attend. “I’m looking forward to defending our title this season since many City coaches are already branding the trophy with Sylmar’s name on it,” Forrest said. “The guys are using this talk as fuel for their fire. You can bet nothing will be given away by us, especially seeing the level our boys are playing at. It’ll be exciting!”