Personal Statement
My name is Nicholas Pranger and I am a student at the Latin School of Chicago in the Class of 2021. In my first and second years of high school, I was the starting setter on the varsity team. I work hard, listening to my coaches to take direction on how to improve my playing. My team looks to me as the setter and leader in each point and on the court. I take that responsibility seriously and try to lead people on the court in a positive way. Sometimes I will lighten intense situations by making jokes or laughing - something to keep my teammates from getting down and frustrated. I do this intentionally, even if it might look like I am acting light hearted, because I am trying to keep the team positive. Standing at almost 6 feet tall, I try to be like a power plant, giving people on my team a boost of energy through my energetic and playful behavior.
I started playing volleyball in 4th grade, when I joined a program called Superstars at my school. In that program, I learned the basics of volleyball and started my love for the game. In 5th grade there was another program called the Roman 5. Fifth graders were not allowed yet to play games, so we only practiced. In 6th grade I was placed on the Middle School varsity team because of my consistency in serving and passing. I started club volleyball in the 6th grade, where I became the setter. In 8th grade, I joined Drive. My coach had me play outside hitter. Although my heart remained as a setter, having this outside hitter experience helped my serve and my passing and defense. In 9th grade, I returned to the setter position. For the summers since 6th grade, I also have played beach volleyball in the summer. The game is very different, helping me with my jumping and speed.
My energy, passion and drive to keep playing and improving makes me a valuable team member, where I am a consistent player and leader.
