Captain is a highly respected title in any setting. Whether you’re the captain of a boat or a team, the role commands admiration—and the HSE boys volleyball team is no different. Sean Smart and Sean Carmona are the captains of the Royals boys volleyball team, and both play a significant role in the team’s success.
Their impact extends far beyond what happens during a match. Being a captain comes with a wide range of responsibilities off the court as well.
“What it means to be a captain to this team is to be someone who others on the team can trust, whether it is an underclassman, fellow senior, or coach,” said Carmona. “The responsibilities that I now have are to keep these previously mentioned people—and myself—accountable.”
Fulfilling these responsibilities comes with pressure—but it’s pivotal to the team’s success. There is pressure during games and practices to help teammates perform at their best. A key trait for a captain is the ability to thrive under that pressure.
“I feel added pressure as a captain,” Carmona said. “Since others expect me to be on top of my game—physically, emotionally, and mentally.”
Despite the challenges, both Sean Smart and Sean Carmona have proven time and time again that they can rise to the occasion—showing that pressure can make diamonds.
One of the biggest duties of a captain is supporting less experienced teammates. Captains must not only perform individually, but also elevate those around them. Both players contribute in different ways to help their teammates succeed.
“What I do to help less experienced players is to put more of the expectations on me,” Carmona said. “So they can focus more on the game rather than outside expectations.”
In volleyball, the mental aspect of the game is just as important as the physical one. This makes the captain’s role even more critical. They must ensure they stay in the right mindset—and help keep the entire team mentally focused and calm.
Captains play an essential role on the volleyball team and much of the team’s success can be attributed to their leadership. Whether they are making plays on the court or helping their teammates grow, their impact is undeniable. The title of captain is much more than just a name—it’s the reason HSE boys volleyball plays like a united team, not just a group of individuals.
