Freedom hasn’t lost a step after a successful spring last year on the volleyball court and the Pates might even be better.

The Pates (10-0) stand with the best record in District 11 and are one of two teams that are undefeated.

They have so far gotten wins over the traditional upper tier of volleyball programs in the East Penn Conference with victories over Parkland and Whitehall, but will be tested over the next two weeks with two matches against Nazareth, who are also undefeated at 8-0.

“It’s great to get wins against Whitehall and Parkland,” said head coach John Yanek. “We have a long way to go. We have Nazareth twice, Emmaus, and Northampton on the horizon.”

The Pates have a tame week leading up to Thursday’s showdown against Nazareth, as they face Allen and Pocono Mountain West in the lead up.

But with Nazareth on Thursday and then next Tuesday, followed by Northampton (7-3) and Emmaus (7-1) in consecutive league action, it’ll be the true litmus test for the group.

Still, the Pates look like they’re sitting in the front of the class this year again and Yanek hopes they can continue there torrid stretch.

“I knew we had potential, but wasn’t sure we would be this ahead of the game as we are,” he said. “We are starting to develop a deep bench which should help us down the line. I believe we have a little more overall hitting power this season. We seem to have more confidence in each other. We’ve matured throughout the off season. We are shrugging off mistakes more this season and pushing forward, not dwelling on the negatives. They need to stay focused and look at the big picture and decide what they need to do to get there.”

Liberty (3-4) are looking to stay above water, but have a tough week on their slate with Northampton, Emmaus and Easton on deck.

Bethlehem Catholic has struggled to find wins, sitting at 1-9 so far on the season.

Things don’t get easier for the Hawks this week, as they face Nazareth, Northampton and Allen.