High expectations for the Bears

The John Burroughs Bears are looking to improve on their record from a season ago, which itself was a big step forward after their 2023 season. They will also look to finish in the top 3 in the Pacific League this season. Last fall, the Bears finished with a 14-16 overall record and an 8-6 record in Pacific League Play. With high expectations, long-time head coach Edwin Real has a coaching staff that can help guide the Bears to the promised land. Real’s coaching staff features Sabrina Sullivan (Head Junior Varsity Coach and Varsity Assistant Coach) and Glen Hamanaka (Head Frosh Coach).

The players will look to help the Bears to league title contention which starts with seniors Lilly McTeer (opposite) Narissa Wareebor (opposite/defensive specialist) Naomie Zavala (middle blocker) and Kiana Hildbrant (opposite) along with juniors Savannah Lay (setter/twin sister of Sienna) Sienna Lay (setter/Pacific League’s honorable mention/twin sister of Savannah) Khloe Pavia (middle blocker/returning all Pacific League 2nd team). Sophomores Zoe Davis (outside hitter) and Naysiah Chapman (defensive specialist) should be key underclassmen for the team this season. Hildbrant will be one of the 3 captains alongside McTeer and Narissa Wareebor.

“We’re excited about kicking off the 2024 season at the Molten Classic, and it will help us get off to a great start to the season.” said Bears coach Edwin Real. Real praised coaches Sabrina Sulivan and Glen Hamanaka for their hard work over the years and admitted that they always get the young kids ready for every game.

The Bears will begin the 2024 season on Saturday, August 10th at the Molten Classic Tournament with opponents to be determined. Other dates on the calendar will be the home opener against Chatsworth on Wednesday, August 21st, with the first serve scheduled for 5:15 p.m.  Pacific League play will begin on Tuesday, September 17th with a road contest against Arcadia. Senior night honoring the graduating seniors from the class of 2025 will take place on Tuesday, October 10th against Muir with the opening serve slated for 5:15 p.m. Burroughs will take on league rival Burbank on Tuesday, October 8th at Burbank High School with the first serve scheduled for 6 p.m.