Cranston Volleyball Players Garner Awards

Several boys’ volleyball players from Cranston High School East and Cranston High School West were recognized for having outstanding seasons this past spring.

For East, senior Billy Chen solidified his status as one of the best players in Rhode Island, being named First Team All-State and First Team All-Division. The co-captain finished the season with 208 kills from the outside hitter position, to go along with 34 blocks, 197 digs, 17 aces, 72 assists, while serving 89 percent.

As East’s libero (defensive specialist), senior Viseth Phum led the team in digs with 294 and served 93.4 percent. Phum earned Third Team All-State and Third Team All-Division honors.

Despite a season-ending injury halfway through the season, junior middle hitter Kegan Moody was named All-Division Honorable Mention for the Thunderbolts.

West’s most decorated player was libero Steven Ruhle. The senior was awarded All-State Honorable Mention, First Team All-Division and All-Tournament for the playoffs.

“Our team strength was defense and it started with Steven,” said West head coach Roger Tow. “Most teams changed their offense to hit away from him.”

Junior Evan Carbone collected First Team All-Division honors for the Falcons. He led the team with 147 kills.

“Evan was our most improved player,” stated Tow. “He worked hard to become a good all-around player.”

Sean Laporte, who set and hit for the Falcons, was also named First Team All-Division. The senior captain had 164 assists, 37 kills, 43 blocks and served 94 percent.

“Sean was our team leader,” said Tow. “He set extremely well and was a force at the net. We worked on passing the ball tight so Sean could attack the second ball.”

Tow’s nephew, Jason Tow, made Second Team All-Division. The senior co-captain had 67 kills and 92 digs.

Junior Eric Borrelli claimed Third Team All-Division Honors for West. Borrelli finished the season with 86 kills and 112 blocks, which included three double-doubles (at least 10 kills and 10 blocks in a match).

As for team awards, Cranston West was recognized for winning the Division 2 regular-season title with a 13-1 record. Cranston East was acknowledged for its positive attitude and conduct with the Division 1 Sportsmanship Award.