Aiming for Perfection

Palisadian Oliver Deutschman Sets Bar High for Crossroads Volleyball Program

Watching Oliver Deutschman play volleyball is like watching a maestro directing his symphony’every move precise, every decision correct, every touch eye-popping in its skill. In fact, for a player considered the best in the country at his position, there are few superlatives that would be an exaggeration. The 6′ 5″ setter from Crossroads won gold at the 2008 Junior Olympics and was named a First Team All-American following the tournament. Last Wednesday, Deutschman put his talents on display against the defending City champions and Palisades players had front row seats. “It was a really fun match and I enjoyed playing against them,” Deutschman said after Palisades rallied for a 23-25, 17-25, 25-18, 25-19, 16-14 victory. “I grew up with a lot of those guys and I play on the [Palisades Volleyball Club] 18-1s team with Matt [Hanley]. I liked being on the other side of the net for a change.” Deutschman started on the U.S. Youth National Team that won the 2008 NORCECA title and qualified for this year’s Youth National World Championships in Italy. He was recruited by virtually all of the top Division I schools but committed to UC Santa Barbara after visiting the campus and meeting the coach. “I just think it’s a good fit for me,” he said. “I’m looking forward to going there.” A lifelong Palisades resident, Deutschman has attended Crossroads since kindergarten. His Roadrunners were shorthanded in last Wednesday’s match, having to play without one of their top hitters and one of Deutschman’s friends, fellow Palisadian Jacob Sachse. “It was awesome to have an opportunity to play against Oliver,” Palisades’ Jordan Cohen said. “You can see how good he is and how he can make everyone around him better. Actually, it’s amazing to be the court with him. I’m proud of the way we came back after being down two games.” Deutschman’s team may have lost but he had a typical match–finishing with well over 50 assists without a single lift violation. His versatility was also on display as he won three jousts, served three aces, dumped five balls and, for good measure, added four stuff blocks–including one on Hanley to end the first game. As the senior “quarterback” of his team, Deutschman directs the offense expertly, anticipating where he should set before his teammates even move into position. He is a chatter box, barking out directions before every point. “That’s my job–to see the floor and read where the ball is going,” he said. “What I like about setting is that you touch the ball on every play so you’re very involved in the match. Every point is an opportunity to contribute.”