August 25, 2025

When Amelia Kaleda reflects on last season’s most memorable moment, she doesn’t hesitate to point to Donovan Catholic’s Shore Conference Tournament quarterfinal victory over Brick Memorial. For the junior outside hitter, that game embodied everything she hopes to see from the Griffins this season: exceptional energy, unwavering positivity, and the kind of collective support that transforms individual talent into championship-caliber team performance.

“Going into the game the team had really great energy and a positive mindset which really helped our win,” Kaleda recalls about that pivotal October matchup. “It was one of the most exciting games of the season because everyone on the court was able to get involved and contribute to our win. We were all so supportive of one another which allowed for everyone to play confident in such a key game.”

That victory, part of a remarkable 22-7 season that saw Donovan Catholic finish 10-2 in Shore Conference B South play, perfectly encapsulates Kaleda’s impact on the program. The 5′ 10″ outside hitter has emerged as one of the most dynamic players in South Jersey volleyball, combining impressive statistical production with the leadership qualities that make her teammates better.

Statistical Excellence

Kaleda’s numbers from the 2024-25 season tell the story of a player hitting her stride. Leading the team with 219 kills while averaging 7.55 kills per game, she established herself as Donovan Catholic’s primary offensive weapon. Her attacking prowess was complemented by solid all-around play, contributing 121 digs (4.17 per game) and 52 aces throughout the campaign.

What makes Kaleda’s production even more impressive is her consistency across all 29 matches played. Whether facing conference rivals or tournament competition, she delivered reliable offensive output while maintaining her defensive responsibilities. Her single-game highs included 14 kills against Barnegat and 9 digs against Notre Dame, demonstrating her ability to elevate her performance in crucial moments.

The junior’s versatility showed in her stat line beyond just kills and digs. While primarily focused on attacking, Kaleda also recorded 2 assists and 1 block, showcasing the well-rounded skill set that makes her such a valuable asset to head coach Glenn Jansen’s system.

Tournament Success and Team Chemistry

Donovan Catholic’s run through both the Shore Conference Tournament and NJSIAA Non-Public A Tournament highlighted Kaleda’s ability to perform under pressure. The team’s quarterfinal victory over Brick Memorial, which she identified as her standout memory, came during a stretch where the Griffins won four consecutive tournament games before falling to eventual champion Southern in the Shore Conference semifinals.

“Going into this season I think it’s important that me and my teammates are able to focus on establishing strong chemistry on the court so we’re able to support each other in high pressure plays and games,” Kaleda emphasized when discussing the team’s goals.

That chemistry proved crucial throughout the season, particularly during the team’s impressive regular season run. The Griffins navigated a challenging Shore Conference schedule while building the trust and communication that would serve them well in postseason play. Kaleda’s leadership as a junior was instrumental in fostering the supportive environment she values so highly.

Filling the Leadership Void

Following graduation losses that left gaps in the roster, Kaleda and her teammates faced the challenge of stepping into expanded roles. The departure of several key seniors could have derailed a lesser program, but Donovan Catholic’s returning players embraced their new responsibilities.

“After losing some key seniors we’ve really been working hard to fill any missing pieces and pick up from where we left off last season,” Kaleda noted. “With players entering new roles on varsity everyone’s been putting in the work to be able to contribute this season.”

The team’s ability to maintain its competitive standard despite personnel changes speaks to the program’s depth and the leadership emerging from players like Kaleda. Her combination of statistical production and vocal encouragement helped create an environment where newer players could develop confidence and contribute meaningfully.

Key Returning Players and New Talent

Kaleda highlighted several teammates who will be crucial to the Griffins’ continued success.

“The main key returners consist of junior middle blocker Emaleigh Alborn and senior libero Sofia D’Arcangelo,” Kaleda explained. “Both have gotten so much stronger not only through their playing but through their energy and attitudes.”

Alborn’s presence in the middle provides The Griffins with a reliable target for quick sets and an imposing block presence. Meanwhile, D’Arcangelo’s defensive expertise at the libero position gives the team a steady foundation in serve receive and dig coverage. The combination of these three players creates a strong veteran core around which the program can build.

The injection of young talent has also energized the roster. Kaleda specifically mentioned a freshman who has impressed with her immediate impact. “Some new talent is our freshman S/RS Mady Ayres,” Kaleda said. “Stepping onto the court as only a freshman she already has great I.Q, confidence and skill. I’m excited for everyone to watch the team grow and see our chemistry build throughout the season.”

Looking Forward: Championship Aspirations

As Donovan Catholic prepares for the upcoming season, Kaleda’s perspective reflects both confidence and realism about the team’s potential. The Griffins’ strong 2024 campaign, which saw them exceed many preseason expectations, has created momentum the program hopes to sustain.

“Coming off a strong 2024 season where we were able to prove ourselves after being initially overlooked, we’re hoping to build off that season’s momentum while also starting fresh with a new team dynamic,” Kaleda shared. “Our goal is to play strong and cohesive as a team while also individually playing our best.”

The team’s approach acknowledges both their recent success and the uncertainties that come with roster changes. Rather than setting specific win totals or tournament goals, Kaleda emphasized the importance of continuous improvement and team development.

“With a lot of new players stepping up we don’t know how the season will exactly look but we’re excited to use each game to grow stronger as a team,” she concluded.

This mindset reflects maturity beyond her years and suggests that Kaleda understands the process required to build sustainable success. Her focus on team chemistry and individual growth rather than external expectations demonstrates the kind of leadership that can guide Donovan Catholic through whatever challenges the new season may bring.

As the Griffins enter another competitive Shore Conference campaign, Amelia Kaleda stands as both their most reliable offensive weapon and one of their most important voices in the locker room. Her combination of statistical production, volleyball intelligence, and team-first mentality positions her as a player capable of elevating not just her own game, but the entire program’s ceiling. With players like Kaleda leading the way, Donovan Catholic’s championship aspirations remain very much within reach.