On the volleyball court, it’s not all just about getting kills and aces— it’s a mental game of pressure, energy, and trust. This volleyball season, our varsity team has faced more losses than wins, but every match has taught us something new about teamwork. One lesson we’ve all taken to heart is to keep persevering, no matter the score.
One of the hardest parts of volleyball is handling pressure during a close match. A lot of my teammates (including me) get into their heads, which leads to a snowball of mistakes. During those moments, we focus on taking a breath, locking in, and trying our best. Earlier in the season, we would frequently give up points, a result of small mistakes that could’ve been easily fixed if we hadn’t been stuck in our heads. Unlike our earlier games, on Tuesday, September 23, my teammates and I were losing, but we started trusting each other and began to improve. We ended up going to a full five sets and won. We shook off almost all of our mess-ups, and even when we did individually make one, everyone encouraged each other and helped us all stay focused. For me, after making a mistake, I told myself that even if it was bad, I can “erase” it by making the next play a great one.
Playing multiple games in a single night is extremely exhausting for all of us. By the fourth or fifth set, lots of us are tired, and sometimes our lack of energy even shows on the court through how we play. Still, the excitement keeps everyone going, especially if we really dislike the opponent and know we can beat them. In the first set there was always the most hype, but our emotions as a team set the tone for every game. If one person looks and acts sluggish, the mood can sink the whole team. But when a few of us stay ready for action and positive, it lifts all of our spirits.
Communication is another key to success on the court. We talk constantly during games, calling balls and encouraging each other, but we also check in off the court. Our amazing team captain, KK, has had heart-to-heart talks with the team about how the season is going and how we should try to improve. Those conversations make us stronger and closer, tightening the bond we already have with each other.
My personal favorite position/s are anywhere in the front row. It’s less stressful for me during serve receive, which is one of the team’s biggest struggles in a game. My teammate Jada feels the opposite; she prefers the back row, showing how every player brings different strengths to the team.
Volleyball has affected my everyday life more than I expected this year, and some of my teammates will agree. Not only after losses, practices have been very funky as all of the volleyball teams have been figuring out some issues. Due to these issues, we lost a very important player, but we respect their decision. Even though we’ve had problems, my team is so important to me, and I am proud of each and every one of the players after every game and practice. I know this season has been very weird, but our game on Tuesday proved that we have the mental and physical strength to start succeeding tremendously.
Some of my favorite memories aren’t tied to winning. Gossiping on bus rides home, laughing through long practices even when we get yelled at, or sitting with each other watching the other teams play, remind me why I’m so grateful to be part of such a kind and loving team.
This season has shown me that success isn’t only about the scoreboard. It’s about growing a stronger bond with my teammates and stronger in the sport itself, learning from mistakes, and playing for the teammates who cheer you on, no matter what happens. Volleyball may be a game for viewers, but for us players, it’s a lesson in trust, confidence, and joy.
