The varsity boys volleyball team beat Walter Payton College Prep in straight sets Friday night in their last home game of the season to advance to the regional semifinal of the state tournament

The Romans took an early lead in the first set of the regional quarterfinal on Friday, but Payton rallied and brought the score close before Latin clinched, 25–21.

The second set progressed in kind, with the Romans building a 5–1 lead before another Payton comeback. Neither team led by more than two points for most of the set. The Romans ultimately went up 24–21 and needed only one more point to put the match away, but after a timeout, Walter Payton built back up to 24–24.

Senior and captain Tucker Thayer described the team’s synergy during these final few points. “Especially in those tense moments, you need to stay together,” he said. “Otherwise, it can all fall apart so easily.”

After several more nailbiting points, Latin finally won, 28–26.

Senior and captain Andrew Legendre particularly appreciated the support from parents and students, with fans who packed the stands and wore white. “The fans were amazing,” he said. “It really makes a difference to have people come out and support.”