Freshman Steven Yang bumps the ball while practicing his technique during the first official captains practice Feb. 14 at Como Park High School in St. Paul. (Aaron Lavinsky/The Minnesota Star Tribune)

Editor’s note: This story is part of a three-story package from the Star Tribune on how cultural change is reshaping Minnesota high school sports. Please also read our story that looks at sports across Minnesota, and our deep look into high school hockey in our state. Thank you for reading.

The snowy weather outside St. Paul Como Park High School on a recent Friday afternoon brought a chill. Inside, though, the food was warm and the energy stirring.

About 40 boys and girls sat near the gymnasium, visiting and laughing. Lined along one wall were tables with pots simmering. The mood was a mix of relaxed excitement and anticipation.

The main reason for the after-school hubbub could be found inside the gym: About 15 boys were smacking volleyballs around, conducting the first official captains practice in preparation for Minnesota’s debut season of MSHSL-sanctioned boys volleyball.

For more on boys volleyball's inaugural season, click here to read this story on startribune.com.