The Finger Lakes Community College (FLCC) men’s volleyball team is gearing up for the 2025 season with high expectations, following back-to-back NJCAA National Invitational Championships in 2023 and 2024. Under the leadership of second-year head coach Steven Verbridge, the Lakers aim to build on their success with a mix of seasoned sophomores, talented freshmen, and a commitment to a team-first mentality.
This year’s squad combines veteran leadership and promising newcomers. Four returning sophomores—Bryce Nickson, Evan Lukasiewicz, Aaron Hennessy, and Marc Williams—bring championship experience and have embraced their roles as mentors for a nine-member freshman class. This includes Cole Thomas, Jack Donovan, Grant Walker, Dominick Alvarado, Jake Seklar, Braden Whitcomb, Darin Conrad, Joe Massey, and Israel Acevedo.
Coach Verbridge is optimistic about the team’s potential. “We lost a lot of sophomore leadership, but we have 50% of our starters back and talent that could make this the best team FLCC has ever had,” Verbridge said. “Our mission remains the same: ‘What is best for the team, always.’”
Defense will again serve as the team’s foundation. Verbridge emphasized its importance: “Defense, Defense, Defense, Serving, Defense! Our success hinges on passing and blocking. This group is talented and deep, and we push one another to grow.”
Sophomore leadership will play a critical role both on and off the court. “Their leadership is astounding,” Verbridge said. “They’ve experienced the pressure and success of elevating this program and are committed to guiding the freshmen to even greater heights.”
The Lakers are supported by assistant coach Daina Marsh, returning team manager Payton Stoddard, and first-year manager Michelina Williams. Together, they foster a collaborative environment where everyone contributes to the team’s goals.
This year, the stakes are even higher as the National Invitational Championship will be hosted on the Lakers’ home court, giving the team an opportunity to defend their title in front of their fans. “We’re one of the best-kept secrets in the region,” Verbridge said. “We embrace adversity, push each other forward, and embody a true team-first mentality. We’re looking forward to a fun and competitive season.”
With a strong blend of experience and new talent, the Lakers are poised to continue their championship legacy and make another title run in 2025.
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