College men’s volleyball: Burden Brothers feel right at home

Steve Virgen

CRAWFORD HALL - The UCI/Wyndham West Coast Challenge at UC Irvine

was a great chance for the Burden brothers, Evan and Greg, to reacquaint

themselves with familiar surroundings Friday and Saturday.

They are former Corona del Mar High boys volleyball standouts who are

now a part of the USC men’s volleyball team.

The elder Burden brother, Greg, a 6-foot senior libero for the

Trojans, played in three games against rival UCLA. He compiled five digs

in the four-game loss, but aside from that he’s preparing his younger

brother for the fast times of college life and athletics.

Evan Burden is a redshirt who is the Trojans’ team manager, compiling

the statistics while learning about the college game. Next year, Evan

will compete for the libero position.

“Playing in college is a lot different,” said Evan, who played for the

Sea Kings last spring. “It’s a big step up from high school. Right now, I

just want to help the team in any way I can. I just want to stay

involved.”

Meanwhile, Greg is gaining the most out of his final year with the

Trojans. It’s been a great ride for the elder Burden brother.

“I love the college atmosphere,” Greg said. “I’ve been living in the

fraternity house. But this time of the year it’s all about volleyball.

It’s time to mellow out on the social life and get down to business.”

Greg also enjoyed the time coming back home and seeing old friends.

“It’s great to come back,” Greg said moments after sharing a hug with

former club coach Charlie Brande, who is now the head man of the UCI

men’s volleyball team. “Charlie is just great. He’s such a great coach.”