Preseason rankings: YAIAA boys' volleyball
With the high school spring sports season fast approaching here's a look at the top pre-season volleyball teams returning in the YAIAA:
1. Northeastern: The past couple seasons, Northeastern dominating the York boys' volleyball scene has become almost a foregone conclusion. The Bobcats have won three straight PIAA championships, and with six returning starters, are in good position to win a fourth. Reese Devilbiss, Jeff Reynolds and Matt Schaeffer are among the best players in the state.
2. Central York: The Panthers haven't been as dominant as Northeastern in recent years, but they're still usually among the best in the YAIAA. Last season's District 3 Class AAA champions, Central York still has high expectations despite replacing former head coach Brad Livingston with longtime assistant Todd Goodling. Hayden Wagner and Carter Luckenbaugh will be two of the team's leaders.
3. York Suburban: Coming off a 10-7 season, York Suburban will be worth keeping an eye on in 2016. The Trojans lost just two players from last year's team, and return a number of key seniors including setter Kaleb Ansell (791 assists), and outside hitters Ian Firestone (320 career digs) and Sepehr Vakili (212 kills).
4. Spring Grove: The Rockets went 11-6 last season but will have to regroup this season under new head coach Cameron Mummert. Despite graduating its top-two players from last season in Austin Muff and Dalton Forbes, Spring Grove brings back most of its roster, including senior Jeremy Bossom and juniors Luke Hoffnagle and Mason Staub.
5. Susquehannock : After going 10-6 last season, the Warriors bring back a strong senior class led by Quinlan Kauffman, Stephen Rouse and Kurt Eckenrode. Their biggest challenge will be replacing AJ Schaeffer and Brian Sheddy.
Kaleb Ansell, York Suburban, sr.
Mark your calendar
March 31: Central York at York Suburban, 7 p.m.
April 19: New Oxford at Red Lion, 7:30 p.m.
April 21: Dallastown at Spring Grove, 7:15 p.m.
April 26: Susquehannock at York Suburban, 7 p.m.
May 12: Central York at Northeastern, 7:15 p.m.