ATHLETE OF THE WEEK: Matthew Antrella

West Orange boys volleyball junior Matthew Antrella performed exceptionally well in a 3-2 victory over St. Cloud April 18 with 11 kills, three blocks and 26 digs. Antrella has been a standout all spring for the Warriors, who finished the 2016 season with a 16-9 record.

What was going through your mind in the last match before defeating St. Cloud? 

They were pushing us really hard, and I really wanted to win that game. I was just telling our team that we can’t let down and we had to push it all the way.

How did you get started playing volleyball?

My sister used to play here, and I used to go to her games. She was like, “Oh, you’re tall; you should play,” and I was a freshman and wanted to get into a sport, so I was like, “Why not?” I love it now.

What’s one of the highlights of this season for you personally?

The best highlight was beating Bishop Moore on March 10. We weren’t really that coordinated as a team, and they were just coming off a state championship, and that was at their gym. It definitely brought us together as a team.

What’s your favorite move in volleyball?

I like hitting a hut because it’s high-tempo. I try to hit it before the block goes up so I can just put it down.

If you could have your dream meal in front of you, what would it be?

Easy: Chipotle. Before every game. I get a burrito bowl with white rice, brown beans, chicken, tomatoes and cheese.

Is there a song or artist that gets you pumped up to play?

Usually I listen to EDM music. It pumps me up and gets me going. I really like Hardwell.

Which Disney character are you most like?

I think Goofy is the same personality as me, just clowning around and being silly on the court or off the court.

Do you have a favorite sports team?

The New York Yankees. My parents are from New York, and they got me to like them right away, and I’ve just been paying attention to them.