This was my second year as a volleyball player and my first year as co-captain of the JV volleyball team. This experience means a lot to me as it allowed me to grow in volleyball and the leadership required to lead the team during games. Through this journey, my dedication to the sport has grown even more.

Upon returning to RIS, I had high expectations of making the varsity team. This is why, after finding out that the team had already been selected, I was disappointed—not simply because I wouldn’t participate in SEASAC, but because I couldn’t play with other highly skilled athletes and learn from them. Nonetheless, this didn’t discourage me from attending every practice, game, and tournament. I had a new goal—I would focus on my personal growth, improve my technique, and familiarize myself with gameplay.

One of the most challenging moments for our team was during our first friendly tournament at ISB. We were up against UWCD and ISB, both equally skillful in their serves. Combined with the pressure of an audience, we were stirred, and many of us lost focus. As co-captain and setter, I had to take charge and encourage my teammates to call out for each other and focus on the next play. It was not an easy thing to do, especially as they were much younger and more sensitive. As a result, I had to adjust my behavior and be aware of the situation of the game and my team to take the best course of action. Although we lost both matches, it gave me a sense of what being in a game was about. It was tremendously refreshing. 

During the middle of the season, I emphasized my serves and sets. Outside of practice, I watched past NCAA tournament games and tried to apply the same techniques the players used. This helped me improve in both aspects, especially my serves. I could do floats once or twice a practice and was incredibly proud.

Finally, BMAC came around, and it was my most memorable season experience. We won our rematch against ISB, and our team was ecstatic. In our game against SHB, I injured my leg while serving and reacted so absurdly that everyone laughed, including me. That day, I brought home the gold medal, the sense of strength for our team, and the passion for volleyball that I would have today.