Freedom has started strong on the volleyball court this spring, but can the Pates keep up their undefeated start?

After a 5-0 start to the year, Freedom comes into a week with two contests that will test their mettle against traditional EPC powers Parkland and Whitehall.

After beating up teams in their first five matches, the Pates have confidence about themselves.

“They are starting to fire on most cylinders which has helped us to create this successful beginning to our season,” said head coach John Yanek. “Not giving up has propelled us forward.”

Freedom has knocked off Bethlehem Catholic, Southern Lehigh, Northampton, Notre Dame and Dieruff so far. Only Solehi and Northampton are above .500 at this juncture of the season, but the Pates are atop the district power rankings after the first two weeks.

Facing a Parkland (2-1) team coming off their first loss of the season to Exeter will be a difficult challenge, along with a 1-2 Whitehall team looking to find their footing.

Yanek just wants his group to keep playing their game.

“The hitters are being versatile,” he said. “Our setter spreads the sets around. This start is important, because it sets a positive tone and to build on the success.”

Liberty (4-1) has been hot as well, since losing to Parkland in five games in their opener, the ‘Canes have won four straight topping Whitehall, Easton, Delaware Valley and Pocono East in straight sweeps.

They also won the Rover Invitational recently, knocking off the likes of Northeast, Emmaus and Haverford in the finals after going undefeated in pool play.

LHS should continue its momentum this week against Allen.

Bethlehem Catholic (0-3) has faced a rough opening schedule with losses to Parkland, Freedom and Whitehall, but the Hawks hope to find the win column this week against when they face Easton (1-5) and Pocono East (0-6).