November 17, 2006: Each year, through the dedication of the faculty and staff of Brookline's Public School system, students are presented with extraordinary opportunities to participate in a variety of afterschool intramural sports. Seventh and eighth grade students tryout for teams that compete among neighboring schools. One of the more exciting, fast-paced offerings is volleyball. And, let's face it, it's just a cool sport to watch! For the past 2 months, teams from each of Brookline’s middle schools Pierce, Baker, Heath, Lincoln, Devotion, Driscoll and Runkle have gathered weekly for some fun and rather spirited matches. This year, for the second consecutive year, the top honor goes to John D. Pierce School.

Under the experienced guidance of dedicated coaches Billy Harris and Mike Miceli, Pierce Pride savored another undefeated season with an impressive 7-0 record. Then it was onto tournament play-offs at the high school. On November 14th, Pierce matched up with a tough and tenacious Lincoln School, but emerged victorious with a 2-1 win to advance to the finals. Meanwhile, in another gym, 2nd seed Baker School handily beat Heath School 2-0. The following day, to a packed, standing-room-only crowd at Brookline High School, both Pierce and Baker Schools pulled out all the stops in a very spirited match that was neck-and-neck to the very end. After some exciting and lengthy back-and-forth volleys that had to be seen to be believed, Pierce managed a miraculous come-from-behind rally to beat a steadfast and unyielding Baker team 2-1 to eventually capture the championship.

Last year’s returning Pierce 8th graders included Janet, Alex, Chinue and Tevin. Together with 8th grade starters Nick and Rick, Tiffany, Shira, Lusi and Michael rounded out the wall of perseverant upperclassmen. Following magnificently in his older brother’s very tall footsteps, 7th grade starter Jesse, along with rookies Ravi, Arjun and Grace entertained audiences with their teamwork, tenacity and ultimate sportsmanship.

Coached by Beth Hufnagel, members of Team Baker included 8th graders Meghan, Garrett, Alexandra, Sarah, Hannah, Louisa, John, Luis, Matt and Kristin along with 7th graders Jamie, Aiden, Samuel, Jason and Adam.