Recently, the varsity boys volleyball team got new uniforms. While people may think this is just a part of being on a team, in reality, new uniforms have to be earned.
If you’ve watched a game this season, you may have noticed a change—their new shorts. For years, the team wore plain black shorts with royal blue stripes at the bottom, but now they are solid blue, tying them more in line with the Royals’ color scheme.
“The new slunks this year represent not only the team but also the coaches who helped design them and the parents who helped raise money for them,” senior captain Sean Carmona said. “Wearing last year’s shorts always brings back good memories of my sophomore and junior years, which have helped shape me into the person I am today. But I’m ready to try something new and make new memories.”
The inspiration behind the change in shorts is similarly meaningful.
“After years of hard work, our team has gone from a club to an officially recognized sport for the IHSAA,” coach Jill Smart states. “To commemorate this milestone, we came together as a community to raise funds for custom slunk shorts—symbolizing our journey, our bond, and our dedication. The waistband says ‘Royals,’ and the pockets say ‘Family,’ because that’s exactly what we are.”
At first glance, they may seem like just another pair of shorts. But when you look closer, you see the meaning woven into them. The royal blue shorts feature the HSE logo on one side and the word “Royals” on the back pocket, along with an outline of the Royals’ logo in black. And if you reach into the pocket, you’ll find the word “Family” printed on the inside—a reminder of the bond that unites the team. Earning these shorts was a goal for this season—one that the team achieved through dedication and the support of parents, players, and coaches.
“The shorts aren’t just a piece of clothing that looks cool; they represent our ability as Royals to work for what we want. They show our determination and perseverance,” senior captain Sean Smart said. “The program earned these shorts through a fundraiser that raised $3,000 so that every player could have them.”
With every game they play, the Royals wear their shorts with pride, knowing they represent not just a team, but a family built on hard work, unity and tradition.
