Celebrating the 25th Anniversary of the 1999 State Runner-Up Boys Volleyball Team
On Tuesday, April 2, 2024, during a Varsity Boys Volleyball match, Spring Grove Athletics honored and recognized the 1999 Spring Grove Boys Volleyball Team on their 25th Anniversary of winning second place in the State. As a tribute to their outstanding achievements, they proudly accepted a team portrait and plaque that is now on display in the trophy case outside of the High School gymnasium. This joins their State Runner-Up banner hanging inside the gymnasium and their 2015 Rocket Athletic Hall of Fame plaque.
The 1999 team left an incredible mark on the courts, boasting an undefeated record of 10-0 in our league and an impressive 20-0 in sets. Their journey was defined by victories over formidable opponents, including notable wins against State-ranked teams such as #6 New Oxford (15-5, 15-13) and #5 Central York (15-2, 15-7).
In the District semi-finals, they triumphed over #6 Central York (15-5, 13-15, 15-9) before losing in the finals to #5 Hempfield (6-15, 8-15).
On their path to the State Finals, they defeated defending State Runner-Up #3 Lower Merion (15-13, 15-10) and reigning State Champion #4 Souderton (15-5, 13-15, 15-8). Although they fell short in the State Finals against #1 North Allegheny (15-5, 12-15, 8-15), their journey was nothing short of extraordinary.
A special acknowledgment to Head Coach Mick Gilbert and Assistant Coach Bill Hahn for their exceptional guidance and leadership throughout the season, along with team managers Lauren Rabenstine and Rachel Altland.
The members of the 1999 Boys Varsity Volleyball Team:
- #6 Outside Hitter and Captain Brett Warner
- #21 Middle Hitter Dustin Kuhn
- #9 Setter Brandon Anderson
- #19 Middle Hitter Andy Strine
- #17 Opposite Hitter Jason Gruver
- #7 Defensive Specialist Brett Yohe
- #11 Outside Hitter Jake Inners
- #24 Outside Hitter Scott Eisenhart
- #5 Setter Dirk Anderson
- #3 Outside and Middle Hitter Mike McDaniels
- Head Coach Mick Gilbert