One On One with Coach Michael Del’Homme

MaxPreps Student Section.

Boys' volleyball may not be the most popular spring sport, but the Chaminade (West Hills, Calif.) Eagles are giving their fans a reason to watch. Despite the recent struggles, including two losing seasons, Delhomme says, "Our school has something to cheer about. These players are great kids. They went through a lot of adversity through their careers as the coaching was inconsistent. Since I started coaching Chaminade in 2008, I've seen these kids work hard and persevere through the tough times." Coach Delhomme, founder of the California Blue Volleyball club for boys and girls in Los Angeles, has 25 years of experience as a coach and knows what it takes to win.

He is an outgoing and optimistic individual, who truly sees potential in his volleyball team. Led by their three seniors, 6'4 Mitch Siam, 5'11 Ben Nichta, and 6'4 Connor Burton, The Eagles are 5-9 including a 2-5 record in a really tough Mission League. The Mission League consists of seven private school teams, including sport powerhouses, Crespi and Notre Dame in Los Angeles, California. The Mission League also features Loyola of Los Angeles, who is the reigning Southern Section Division 1 champions. "We have a crucial game against Loyola this Thursday. The Mission League is definitely a dog fight because all the teams are so tough and really skilled," says Delhomme. "This game is going to be a tough test for our team. We will give them a good fight and this is good preparation for playoffs."

The season for the Eagles has been tough, but the coach believes that they have improved their mental and physical toughness, along with their team chemistry, which can help them do damage in the playoffs, which start after season finishes on May 5th. "We may not be undefeated, but this team could go far in playoffs. We are the underdog because many people underestimate us by our record but we give every team a tough game. We started off strong in the Redondo tournament, and have improved in every way since." At the opening tournament, the Eagles had good wins over Saugus and Lakewood, giving the team more confidence.

Their captain and go-to player, opposite and middle hitter, Mitch Siam has been a key factor in the improvement. Coach Delhomme says that Mitch keeps the team together when they are struggling to score points. "It doesn't matter how far behind the team is, he tells everyone to stay cool. He's the kind of player who wants the ball when the game is on the line." Although he is a senior, Delhomme believes his younger brother, 6 foot freshman Zach Siam, can carry the team as a setter. Like Mitch, Zack will look to carry the team in the near future.

The coach believes the freshman will be the "player to watch" in Chaminade's volleyball program. Also, he thinks Zach has the capability to get a Division I scholarship. "He is already the most consistent setter on the team and has great ball control and maturity. He still needs work, but his future is bright." The Eagles have a lot of momentum going their way because of their young stars such as Zack Siam and more balanced coaching.

Coach Mike says they can compete with any team and praises their effort and intensity. "Every night, no matter if they won 3-0 or lost 0-3, they come to the locker room and are proud of themselves. They have strong chemistry and are the true definition of a team." Chaminade has a loud fan section called "The Cage" comprised of various students who love cheering on their team. Notoriously known for being loud and chanting at opposing players during volleyball games, "The Cage" is hoping that their Cinderella team can do some damage in the playoffs.