Actually, the Rams are well into the 2006 spring season with 12 matches under their belts already. And they return to the Mt. Hamilton Division of the Blossom Valley Athletic League this year with a few returning weapons and a few new ones.

Willow Glen is already 2-1 in league play after defeating Branham on March 14 in three of five games. Branham took the lead, winning the first game 25-23, but Willow Glen came back to win the second 25-15. Branham took another win 25-17 and then Willow Glen won two straight 25-19 and 15-6 to take the victory in the match.

Tobin Chase, Willow Glen's No. 1 returner, finished with 21 kills.

Chase, a 6-foot-3 junior, was last year's Sophomore of the Year in the division, and according to head coach Jef Wind, "has a strong leadership role on this year's young team."

Another of the returning players is 5-foot-7 senior Angel Posada. Posada is back on the court this year after starting every match for the Rams last year. "Angel's fast reactions and experience are a definite plus for the team," said Wind.

Mike Reiton, a 5-foot-11 senior, is a returner but a new starter this year for the Rams. "Mike brings a big jump and high snap to our offense," said Wind.

Coming up from the junior varsity squad is Robby Paine, a 6-foot junior who was first team all-league last year. "Robby had a very successful sophomore season for our JV team," said Wind. "His clean hands and understanding of the game will help our development on the court."

Billy Hahn, a 5-foot-9 junior, is also coming up from the junior varsity after receiving first team all-league honors last spring.

Chad Camp, a 5-foot-9 junior, is also a newcomer to varsity this season along with 6-foot junior Robby Harris, 5-foot-7 junior Blake Finkle, 5-foot-9 junior Evan Bishop, 6-foot-2 senior Jason Tom and 6-foot-1 sophomore Spencer Dong.

"Hahn and Camp both play aggressive games and work hard focusing on refining their skills," said Wind.

"And we were very excited to add senior Jason Tom to our line-up," added the coach. "He's accomplished great things in other sports at Willow Glen and now he will do it playing outside for our volleyball team."

The Rams opened league play this year at home against Leigh. Chase spent most of the match on the bench due to the flu, but the rest of the Rams stepped up to fill in. Unfortunately, Leigh took the win and the Rams lost the home opener. Despite his illness, Chase led the team with 13 kills, while Camp had a strong match with quality hitting, digging and aggressive serving.

"This will be an exciting season," said Wind. "We have a very young, enthusiastic group of guys."

The coach picks Leland as the team to beat in the Mt. Hamilton Division, and he also rates Leigh, Branham and Oak Grove as top contenders.

Still, he adds that his Rams "expect to be a very exciting, dynamic, defensive team. As we develop offensively, our points will help our already aggressive passing team."

The Rams were to face Gunderson at the home of the Grizzlies on March 21 and will meet Prospect at home at 7 p.m. on March 21 before taking part in the Varsity Charger Classic at Leland on March 25. The tournament is an all day event.