The University City High Varsity Girls Volleyball Team is back, closer than ever, and having a great season.
Defensive Specialist Senior Mackenzie Forgey said, “It is frightening to come onto a team and feel like you are all alone. That is why we are determined to make sure that nobody feels that way this season.”
Many team members agree that this year’s squad is a lot tighter knit than it has ever been. “The team is great this year. We are doing well, because every single girl truly loves each other and there is absolutely no drama involved,” said Outside Hitter Senior Marissa Gomez.
As less experienced athletes, some of the team members said that they did not have the mentality or the confidence that they needed, but after gaining more knowledge, they realized how much a change of attitude could positively affect them.
Seeing the whole team acquire a new mind-set, even their coach felt inspired to display a more uplifting demeanor. Head Coach Brooke Choi stated that it is most important that the girls have fun and enjoy playing every match with confidence and skill. To motivate the girls, she always brings bagels to the tournaments, because the team loves to eat.
Captain Marina Varano stated that Brooke tries to pump them up before every game by telling them to jump up and down, and to get excited.
Forgey also said, “Our coach really encourages us, but even more than that we really try to push one another, because we truly want to see everyone do well. Also, the talent is a lot more spread out this year, so it makes it a lot easier for us to work together as one unit.”
Other teammates stated that, although having amazing athletes within the group is nice, it is not the key to having a successful team. Furthermore, being on a team is not always about having superstar players. They all realize now that it is more important to be strong as an entire team and not simply as individuals.
Varano said, “We are pretty even with wins and losses, but that is okay, because the team gets along really well.”
However, they are still very concerned about winning, Gomez also stated that, “Our main goals are to win CIF and become an overall better team.