Wednesday, March 5th: Smithtown High School East held “Volley for Val”, a volleyball tournament in loving memory of Valerie Kratochvil. The event was open to all students and faculty; 32 teams came together in support of the Kratochvil Family. 

The day was organized by; East Senior Rabia Chattha, East Junior Margaret Worontzoff, FCCLA teachers Mrs. Gresbosz and Mrs. Smith, and Physical Education/Health teacher Coach Flynn, with the help of Athletes Helping Athletes, Girls Track and Field, and all the class councils, everyone did an exceptional job planning, decorating, and carrying out the event. 

Lifelong friends, acquaintances, and those who never had the opportunity to know Val came together in SHSE’s gyms, not only to play volleyball but to show the continuous love that our building has for her and her family. The team consisting of mostly boys varsity volleyball took the title, but everyone there was a winner for showing up for her. 

Every faculty department in the building donated a raffle basket. Some of the most widely sought-after were the Nike gift card, self-care tools, and pizza gift cards. Each ticket purchased helped the success of the event. 

Other than players, basically the entire school body participated. Between spectators, singers of The National Anthem, and those assisting everywhere from the raffles to team announcing, the event came together beautifully. 

Volley for Val was truly an amazing way to honor the lively, sweet, and athletic person Val was. I hope this event becomes a tradition in her honor as we will truly never forget her.