As the 2024 volleyball season comes to a close, let’s take a moment to honor the seniors who have contributed so much to their team! Each senior has brought something special to their team, and their legacy will live on through their teammates. Because of playing volleyball, the seniors have been able to grow, make connections with others, and learn life lessons. With every serve and spike, the perseverance and teamwork displayed by these athletes weave a narrative that deserves to be shared.
The first senior is Sophia Quick, who started playing volleyball simply to try something new. Over time, she has become an example of commitment, not only to her team but also in balancing her academic life, where she currently ranks in the top ten of the class of 2024. Through volleyball, Sophia has learned valuable lessons in perseverance, leadership, and collaboration. She has gradually learned to overcome her shyness, embracing new challenges with courage and perseverance. Her toughest challenge came when she had to play while grieving the loss of her grandmother, teaching her that it’s okay to not be okay, and that mental health sometimes needs to take priority. On and off the court, Sophia embodies kindness, resilience, and, above all, hard work. Leaving the team is “bittersweet” for Sophia, but she looks toward her future. She plans to pursue a major in Spanish when she goes to college.
Jersey-Ann Hastie, a senior, started playing volleyball because her mom encouraged her to take up a sport. Over the years, Jersey has developed mental and physical toughness. Her dad has been her biggest supporter, providing tips to improve her technique and encouraging her not to give up. The most important lesson Jersey has learned from volleyball is that leadership is challenging, but it’s essential for everyone to work together to perform their best in a game. Jersey advises struggling student-athletes to complete their homework during school hours before a game or practice and prioritize assignments with upcoming deadlines. Although heading to college will be a new and challenging experience for Jersey, she is looking forward to playing for her college team. Jersey’s calm and easygoing energy will be greatly missed by the team.
Sadie Pickering always thought volleyball seemed like a cool sport to try, so when she entered high school, it was her top choice. Now, after four years on the court, Sadie has grown immensely, both in skill and in her confidence. Her teammates know her as a source of light and joy, always lifting others up. Sadie’s philosophy is simple: “We have to be the sunshine to other people.” Leaving the team is heartbreaking for her, as she’s built not only strong bonds with her teammates but also meaningful connections with her coaches. The biggest lesson volleyball has taught Sadie is that your attitude influences those around you, so maintaining a positive outlook is essential both on and off the court. While her teammates will deeply miss the positivity she radiates, they are all cheering her on as she heads to college.
The final senior, Hayleigh Korzeniowski, stands out as one of the strongest players on the volleyball team. Anyone watching her in action can see her dedication, diving fearlessly to keep the ball in play. In her last season, Hayleigh recorded over 100 kills and earned the Providence Journal’s Volleyball Player of the Week title. She first picked up volleyball after leaving soccer, and since then, she has grown both mentally and emotionally. Hayleigh has learned how much emotions can affect her teammates, and she’s become more resilient as a result. Her coach, Kerri, has been the most significant influence on her journey, always encouraging her to push through tough moments and never give up on herself. Hayleigh’s leadership has also been crucial in helping her teammates improve through her thoughtful feedback. Though she’s sad to leave the team, Hayleigh looks forward to continuing her volleyball career in college.
