Approaching this week’s athlete of the week, East is focusing on senior Xander Horst. Horst’s coach, Dru Filkins, feels he exemplifies the E.A.S.T values: Excellence, Academics, Spirit, and Tradition. 

Horst began his volleyball career his freshman year at East and with his commitment and determination he has reached high achievements and opportunities. 

This season Horst has made a mark as he took on a new position to benefit his team. As he usually is a middle hitter, he took the opportunity to play as a right side hitter this year.

Head varsity boys volleyball coach, Filkins, sees a lot of potential in Horst’s abilities and knows he takes his craft very seriously. 

“He was asked to fill a role that would better the team and he has taken to the role very well, playing as a right side hitter,” Filkins said. “Instead of just playing the front row he is now playing all the way around and adding an extra hitter in the back row.”

Even though he made a change in his spot on the court, he still holds a title with his hitting percentages.

His parents, Lisa and Damon Horst, have supported Xander throughout his volleyball career and are thrilled to see the future in their son’s talents. 

“Xander currently leads the team in Hitting percentage and second in Kills. His Hitting percentage is 4th in Conference. Xander has been blessed with great coaching at both East and Sport Performance,” Horst’s parents said. 

Through his passion he has come across many outstanding opportunities where he has expanded his horizons. 

“As part of his Club volleyball season, Xander spent a week in Brazil, scrimmaging against their club teams. Being able to experience the world is a great educational opportunity,” Horst’s parents said. 

Xander will be continuing his athletic and academic career at Thomas More University in the fall of 2025 where he will grow tremendously through their superb programs. 

“When I visited, I liked the campus in that area, and a few of my teammates are going there right now. So it was the best option,” Horst said.

Written by Senior Devin Hatch and Junior Allie Heren . Edited by staff writers for Oswego East’s online news magazine The Howl.