The elementary volleyball teams closed the 2026 season with both the South Korea Association of International Schools (SKAIS) divisionals on Jan. 31 and finals at Atherton International School (AIS) on Feb. 10.

A record number of participants of 48 athletes traveled to Geoje with six girl teams and two boy teams. The tournaments marked the culmination of dedicated practice and teamwork.

At the divisionals, the girls’ A1 team delivered an outstanding performance as they maintained their undefeated record until their final match. They attributed their only defeat to lack of experience rather than lack of skill. “I think we lost the game because we panicked instead of staying calm,” fifth grade A1 player Amelia Park. 

While the A1 players focused on winning, the A3 team focused more on gaining experience. “Our A3 girls played an official volleyball match for the first time, so it was less about winning and more about learning the game,” said Coach Crewe.

The boys’ teams also started off strong, but lost their rhythm against strong rivals. “I think we would have done even better if we had stayed with the momentum. Once we started to lose two or three points, we kept on losing points, and ultimately lost,” said fifth grade A1 player, Jun Kwon.

Communication proved to be another challenge for the boys. “I wish we had said ‘mine’ to each other more often so we could’ve known what was going on better,” said fourth grade boys A1 player, Hubert Jang. 

Even with these difficulties, the young athletes remained optimistic and returned to practice, more motivated than ever. During practice, players focused on calling the ball and receiving tricky serves. 

Weeks later, the DIS athletes competed in the SKAIS finals for the championship title.

Despite their preparations, the finals presented an unexpected challenge for the boys. “One of our key players, Hubert Jang, was missing, so we struggled a lot more than at the divisionals, ” said Kwon. With a gap in the starting roster, the boys A team finished in third place.

After gaining valuable experience from the divisional, the girls A1 team concluded the season on the top of the podium. “We communicated a lot and didn’t panic as much,” said Park. 

Alongside the A1 teams, the A2, A3 and B teams went head-to-head with skilled opponents. “Even though we lost, it just felt good to finish the season well. I was really happy with my teammates and coaches, and I think we all improved so much,” said fifth-grade girls A2 captain, Ratliffe Rhea.

DIS stood out not only for their gold finish and remarkable improvement but also for their admirable sportsmanship. “I think what’s special for me is that the DIS athletes have such good behavior anywhere we go,” said Coach Crewe. 

In one match, the girls even corrected a scoring mistake in their favor. “Once, our A1 girls were given a point by the scorekeepers when it wasn’t actually theirs. And our girls ran over and said, ‘You gave us the point, and it wasn’t ours.’” said Coach Crewe.

From strong teamwork to honest sportsmanship, the athletes demonstrated lessons that will stay with them beyond the season. Now, the young athletes transition to basketball. “They worked hard, and did it with a smile. They enjoyed themselves, which just makes me really proud,” said Coach Crewe.

Gallery • 13 Photos

Leewen Wang

As the opposing team spikes the ball, fifth grader Sofi Akl and fourth grader Elleen Hwang collide mid-play. In a split second, the pair regains their balance and jumps back into position.