April 2025
The Randolph Rams boys volleyball team is on a tear this spring, rolling to an unbeaten 14-0 record behind a powerful lineup that features one of New Jersey’s rising stars, 6’5” junior Benjamin Barninger. With 106 kills, 36 blocks, and 65 digs so far this season, Barninger has emerged as a dominant two-way force in the middle and on the outside for the Rams.
“I feel that we have a strong chance to do whatever we set our minds to,” said Barninger. “As long as we keep our heads in the game and our foot on the gas.”
That determined mindset is fueling one of the most impressive seasons in Randolph volleyball history. As a middle blocker and outside hitter, Barninger’s versatility has been a game-changer, giving the Rams an edge at the net and in transition play. His standout performance against Morristown on April 14 featured a season-high seven blocks and eight kills to lift Randolph to a hard-fought 2-1 win.
“Morristown is definitely a very strong team with some excellent hitters,” Barninger noted. “Fortunately, our defense was ready to play, including Austin Powell with three blocks, Cole Cantada with one, and 69 digs as a team.”
In a season full of consistent performances, Barninger’s impact has been felt in every match. He posted 10 kills and four blocks against Wayne Valley, eight kills and three blocks against Montclair, and delivered a balanced seven-kill, five-dig effort in an impressive 2-0 sweep over Pinelands, and added 7 kills and a 2-0 sweep against a solid Passaic Charter team tonight. His presence at the net has anchored Randolph’s dominance, while his ability to play both middle and outside gives Coach Erik Novack the flexibility to challenge opponents from multiple angles.
“My favorite position is outside hitter,” said Barninger. “I enjoy being involved in every phase of the game and helping the team however I can.”
His volleyball journey began just two years ago when his gym teacher and now head coach, Erik Novack, spotted his potential during a class session and encouraged him to try out. “That spring I decided to try out for the volleyball team and made the JV team,” Barninger shared. “Ever since then I have loved the sport of volleyball.”
Now a key varsity contributor and leader on the court, Barninger is both grateful and focused. “Coach Novack is a great person and a great coach,” he said. “He constantly motivates our team and contributes to our understanding of the game. He helps us on and off the court, making sure we’re being the best versions of ourselves.”
With a vertical leap of 37.5 inches, Barninger’s athleticism is elite. His growth is also evident in his jump from 71 kills in 2023 to 99 kills already this season, with more matches still to play. He also leads the team in blocks, showing his effectiveness as both an attacker and a blocker.
Barninger’s goals stretch beyond high school. “I would love to play volleyball at the collegiate level,” he said. “It’s something I’ve been working hard towards, both on and off the court.”
His success isn’t limited to the high school scene. At the club level, Barninger plays for Xtreme Volleyball Academy, where his 17’s squad captured gold at multiple tournaments, including the prestigious Rust Bucket AAU Tournament in Pennsylvania. “My club team at Xtreme had a good season,” he said. “Winning gold at several tournaments really gave us confidence.”
Off the court, Barninger maintains a healthy balance. “Some other hobbies I love to do are skiing, snowboarding, and sailing,” he said. In the offseason, he participates in weightlifting sessions with his teammates, competes with his club team, and attends college matches to learn from top-level players. “I consistently went to team lifts and watched college games,” he said. “It helps me stay sharp and motivated.”
Randolph’s unbeaten start hasn’t gone unnoticed. The team has swept formidable opponents like Clifton, Chatham, and Ridge, with Barninger scoring seven or more kills in ten of their thirteen matches. As the Rams prepare for critical games against Hunterdon Central, and West Caldwell Tech, Barninger remains confident but grounded.
“We can continue to stay undefeated as long as we keep striving to better ourselves,” he said. “And not get comfortable with how we are doing right now.”
Team chemistry is a major factor in Randolph’s success. “Our team has a very strong connection due to our bonding and our ability to support each other,” Barninger noted. “Our captains, Aedan Perez and Kevin Tinio, really help keep our team together.”
Family and friends have also been a source of encouragement. “My close family is extremely supportive of me,” he shared. “They support me from the sideline, drive me to practice, and even watch my games on livestream. My friends Steven Nostrame, Jaxson Markowitz, and Joey Sommer are also always there for me.”
As the postseason approaches, one thing is clear… Benjamin Barninger is just getting started. With humility, drive, and a passion for volleyball, he’s not only helping lead Randolph’s perfect season, he’s setting a standard for what it means to be a student-athlete in New Jersey.
