Bala Cynwyd Middle School recently hosted their annual Volleyball Tournament as hundreds of students and staff gathered in the gymnasium for a fun-filled evening benefiting the Knights’ Student Assistance Referral Team (START) program, which helps provide a safety net for students who may benefit from extra levels of support during their middle school years.

Nineteen teams began this year's tournament with high hopes of raising the championship trophy at the end of the night, but when it was all said and done, it was Team 7-1 that outperformed their opponents en route to taking home the title! The members of Team 7-1 were teachers Mr. Ryan, Mrs. Laird, Ms. Nozica-Cashman and Ms. Black, along with students Natalia Kasmer, James Given, Valentina Portela, Joanna Won, Will Newbert, Parker Gregg and Victoria Aiquel Gomez.

More important than who won or lost, however, was the fact that good sportsmanship was shown by everyone in attendance and a great time was had by all as the Knights ultimately raised nearly $2,000 for the START program!

Bala Cynwyd’s START team is comprised of school counselors, teachers, paraprofessionals and administrators who have been trained through the Montgomery County Intermediate Unit’s (MCIU) Student Assistant Program. All members are trained to identify issues that may be barriers to a student’s learning and academic success. The team works collaboratively with colleagues, parents and Carson Valley Children’s Aid to assist with any academic, behavioral, attendance and/or health concerns of students.

To view a slideshow of pictures from throughout the evening, click on the image below!