The time has finally arrived for the annual and long anticipated Niles West vs. Niles North volleyball game. The girls volleyball team has been training for this event throughout their season and is prepared to take them on. They face off Tues. Sept. 26, at Niles West. The winner gets awarded the cross-town traveling trophy which is currently at West.

Senior, Franzyl Gian Denila hopes that the girls continue what they have been doing throughout their season since it has been leading them to success.

“Well it’s a huge game and I expect a big crowd tomorrow. I just hope that we continue to communicate well as a team and we all go out and play our hearts out and leave everything on the court,” Denila said.

As for coach Markos Kljajic, he believes Niles West has nothing to worry about, and the game will be filled with high energy and excitement.

“If we play to our strengths, which is aggressive serving and aggressive blocking at the net, I think we got what it takes to take them down in two games. Also, I think we will get a nice crowd in here because it is against Niles North, so the energy will be high and we definitely feed off of that,” Kljajic said.

Not only are coaches and players excited for this annual rivalry, but so are fans that are excited to cheer on their fellow classmates and friends. It gives a sense of pride to the school that wins the trophy.

“I am so excited for the North vs. West game because it always brings a sense of school spirit to the school and gets a lot of people to go to the game in order to see who will get the trophy next. The little rivalry just makes going to sports events a little more fun and exciting,” senior Jackie Calderon said. 

Remember to come support the girls team tomorrow at 6:00 p.m. at Niles West.