Senior players have begun to compete in the last season of their high school volleyball careers. On the other hand, freshmen players are facing brand new opportunities, getting the chance to play on the team for the first time. Everyone works together to help each other. Providing as role models, the upperclassmen grow and share perspective, building a strong foundation for the team.
Senior Maddie Deloney said she is excited for the upcoming season and the opportunities that she will have to work with underclassmen. Over the summer, the team got the chance to become closer and form a strong bond with each other.
“I think even with underclassmen, we’re communicating really well and we’re studying other teams to know what to look for,” Deloney said.
While she is performing well during her senior season, Deloney reflects on her improvements over the past years. When Deloney first joined the team during her freshman year, she had uncertainties about how to play as a setter.
“Every year I grew more and more, and I learned from the people around me, like the other setters on my team. I watched them and I learned from them,” Deloney said.
Deloney has been able to see her growth while improving her skills as a player. She encourages freshmen players to work on enhancing their abilities, and to appreciate every moment they get while playing.
“Be loud and encouraging and just come in with an open mind, an open heart, and just really take advantage of the experience you get being on the Central volleyball team. We have great coaches and a great environment, so while you’re in it, just really live in the moment,” Deloney said.
Senior Lydia Warrior transferred schools last year. This is her second year playing on the volleyball team. While expressing confidence about ending the season on a high note, she is also sentimental that this will be her final year with her team members. Over her past year on the team, Warrior has gotten more experience, leading to her skills becoming further developed. She said she has improved her volleyball techniques, such as receiving and defense.
“I definitely found my place on the court and I think that’s developed my skills much better over the past few years,” Warrior said.
Warrior has multiple ways to find a calming headspace in order to feel composed and prepared before games. Her main strategies involve her taking time to herself.
“Before games, I listen to my worship music and just have some quick meditation time. Just surrounding myself with my team really helps too,” Warrior said.
Warrior appreciates her teammates, and she finds that whenever she spends time around them before a game, she feels more confident and comfortable on the court. She advises new players to not let fear prevent them from enjoying a game.
“Especially the big moments where the pressure’s on, those are the moments that we play for, so take it as an opportunity, take it as a blessing, and just have fun, because it goes by really fast,” Warrior said.
Freshman Libby Rawn has high expectations for the rest of the season, and she hopes that the team will continue their success.
“I like all the girls on the team and I think we’ve been doing pretty good, so I’m excited for this season. I just hope that we all do good and we can win our tournament,” Rawn said.
Rawn looks to senior players to figure out how to not get caught up in her thoughts during a game. She wants to learn how to stay out of her head and be able to move onto the next thing after making a mistake. Rawn’s supportive teammates allow her to feel like she is in a positive environment.
“I always warm up with my friends before a game and I think that really helps me get into the right headspace,” Rawn said.
Freshman Ouchun Cai finds that the community she is surrounded by on the team inspires her to improve. She especially looks up to the hitters on the team.
“When they’re warming up or practicing, I wish that one day I can be like them. They’re literally so good,” Cai said.
Cai also takes time to herself in order to prepare for a game.
“I like having my AirPods in and having a playlist of motivational music. I eat a healthy meal, and make sure I have enough protein and electrolytes,” Cai said.
In her first year, Cai has grown to appreciate the volleyball team for providing her with friends who encourage her to play with high spirits.
“Everyone’s really supportive and it’s nice having a little community. It’s also fun to have practice together and then go to games. It makes you feel like you belong,” said Cai.
