A breakthrough moment for Manado Independent School (MIS), the boys’ volleyball team made history by securing a runner-up position and a third-place finish in prestigious inter-school volleyball championships. This remarkable achievement marks the highest milestone for the school’s volleyball program, showcasing the team’s dedication, talent, and perseverance as they embark on a promising season.
The first championship took place in Bitung from August 23–28, 2024. Facing tough opponents in the semifinals, MIS showed remarkable resilience and strategic play, ultimately securing third place in the SMAKER 2 Bitung Cup 2024. The second championship followed in Manado from August 28–September 5, 2024. It was a fierce and challenging competition, where the team had to rely on each other for motivation and strength, resulting in a tense and tightly contested match. Their runner-up finish in the SMANSA Manado Cup 2024 stands as a testament to their hard work and determination.
Guided by Coach Eka Mokoginta, the team overcame numerous challenges, demonstrating resilience and teamwork throughout the semester. Despite fierce competition, they fought hard in every match, delivering thrilling performances in both the semifinals and finals. Their second- and third-place finishes mark the highest achievement in the history of MIS’s volleyball program. “It was all by the grace of God that the high school boys’ team was able to play so well and achieve second place in the SMANSA Cup,” Coach Eka said, expressing pride in the team’s accomplishments. The school community has celebrated their success with pride and admiration.
Team captain Steve Mokoginta expressed gratitude for the unity and dedication of his teammates. “This was only by the grace of God that we could win. I feel blessed that we were able to do our best in these competitions, even with a new roster and limited preparation time,” he shared. Steve also acknowledged areas for growth, noting, “We need to improve our team communication and sharpen our skills.”
This historic runner-up finish not only brings recognition to MIS but has also sparked renewed interest in volleyball within the school community. The team expressed their appreciation to the competition organizers for upholding sportsmanship throughout the event. Reflecting on their journey, Steve emphasized, “It’s all thanks to God that we were able to come this far.”
As Manado Independent School celebrates this momentous milestone, the boys’ volleyball team can proudly reflect on their historic journey and look forward to a future
of continued success. Their achievements inspire future generations of volleyball athletes at MIS, setting a strong foundation for the road ahead.