I started playing sports at a young age. Growing up, any family function typically turned into a competition, whether it was a board game, round of golf, pickleball, basketball, baseball, biking, skiing or volleyball. Ive been fortunate to play a variety of sports and to be on several different teams throughout my school years, but it was volleyball that became my passion. For three years, I participated in the Parks and Recreation volleyball program where my mom coached. In 6th grade, I entered the world of club. I ended up making the national travel team and the High Performance Team. With the support of my family, I dedicated my time and efforts into improving my skills by taking private lessons, attending every skills clinic that was offered, and passing and serving balls whenever possible. The volleyball net in my backyard never comes down.

When I'm not on the volleyball court or doing homework, you can find me enjoying time with family and friends. My family is everything and they are my biggest supporters. Someone who is extremely important in my life is my Papa. He's a retired commercial fisherman, and designed and built commercial fishing boats. Since I can remember, he was teaching me everything from operating tools, working on cars, welding, building robots, model airplanes, and so much more. I was soldering at the age of 3 and working in his hobby shop helping him build model airplanes and gliders, some with more than 12 foot wingspans. Four years ago, my Papa suffered a massive stroke that left him with complete right side paralysis. This really turned my whole world upside down. He dedicated all his time to therapy because he was determined to get better and walk again. His desire and willpower to get better is so inspiring. His attitude is always positive, never a complaint and I truly believe his positivity is a huge contributor to his recovery process. I went to many PT and OT therapy sessions with my Papa and this is where I witnessed some of the most amazing people who were so kind and compassionate and deeply committed to helping my Papa get better. This has opened my eyes to a field that I now have a desire to pursue. I realize I want to give back to a system that has brought so much light to my family.