Behind each sports team lays a coach who is just as dedicated as the players. Often, fans attribute victories to the athletes rather than to the mentors who work behind the scenes, but the boys volleyball team begs to differ; the players find that Coach Chris Kalinosis’s prowess drives their success.

Coach Kalinosis graduated from Palmetto in 2003; during high school he devoted himself to volleyball, his passion. He joined the junior varsity volleyball team in 2001, and spent his junior and senior year on the varsity team as both a team member and a captain. After graduating high school, Coach Kalinosis attended FIU and graduated with a degree in architecture.

“I’ve been a volleyball coach at Palmetto for the past ten years. At first, I coached junior varsity and was the assistant coach of varsity for seven years,” Coach Kalinosis said. “Now I am the varsity head coach and have been for the past three years. It’s a great feeling to be back where it all started.”

Over the last decade, Coach Kalinosis has brought success to the boys volleyball program, including five district championships, a trip to the regional finals, and a GMAC championship. Both Coach Kalinosis and the volleyball team hope to add a state championship to the already impressive list of achievements Coach Kalinosis has earned during his time with the team.

“Every practice, Coach Chris always brings a positive attitude and new drills for us to improve our skills,” said Thomas Latimer, a sophomore and varsity volleyball player. “Not only is his passion for the sport evident, but he was also once a player on this team. He wants to see us succeed and bring home a state championship for Palmetto just as much we do.”

The team considered last season a “rebuilding year.” While the team only had two seniors, it still managed to win a district championship. However, the team lost in a crushing defeat during the regional finals. This year, there are seven seniors with several years of volleyball experience and familiarity with Coach Kalinosis’s expectations and tactics.

“Practices are intense, to say the least. We practice five days a week for about two hours,” said Tarek Saade, senior and varsity volleyball player. “During practice, we go over ways to perfect our techniques and learn new drills. It’s tiring, but in the end it will all be worth it.”

The only thing on Coach Kalinosis and the team’s minds is finally bringing home a state championship. The volleyball team began their season March 1with the annual Volleyball classic, followed by their first game on March 5 against rival team, Westminster Christian.

“I believe this team has the potential to finally achieve what all of Palmetto has been waiting for,” Coach Kalinosis said. “Most of the kids have been coached by me for years and most importantly have a passion for the game. I cannot wait to see what this season has in store for my team.”