Samantha Balsamo, a senior at East Brunswick High School, achieved a first in the school’s girls’ volleyball history when she record her 1,000th assist.
Balsamo, a setter, reached that elite milestone when she guided East Brunswick to a 2-0 victory over Monroe Township High School on Oct. 6 in front of her home fans in East Brunswick. The Bears won the first game, 25-20, before capturing the second by a score of 25-17.
“It feels great,” Balsamo said about her achievement. “I’m really happy. My team helped me get to where I am right now, so it’s awesome.”
The feat comes just a week after her teammate, senior Jordyn Horowitz, recorded her 500th kill, which was also the first time a player had reached that mark in East Brunswick girls’ volleyball history.
“We have created a tradition and a culture here that is unbelievable,” Balsamo said. “They made me who I am. It’s allowing me and my team to play and be a family, so I couldn’t be more thankful.”
East Brunswick coach Christian Portera gave all the credit to his players.
“It’s really them,” Portera said. “These girls put in a lot of effort during the offseason and during the season. They work really hard. It’s really on them. They’re out there doing all the work. But it is a great feeling to be a part of. First, Jordyn getting her 500th kill and now this. It’s great. I’m proud to be a part of that, but it’s all on them.”