NCSA caught up with rising volleyball star Brittney Barren to talk about her high school career and the opportunity to compete at the next level.
NCSA: What are your goals?
Barren: My individual goals are to be the loudest, most energetic person on the court, constantly bringing smiles to the team's faces! I'd also like to continue my ace record. Staying consistent in all areas is definitely another huge goal of mine. Most importantly, keep my head up and believe in myself!
NCSA: What team building activities do you do with your team?
Barren: The team and I have carbo loads, sleepovers and attend high school functions to keep up with team bonding.
NCSA: What type of pre-season practices/conditioning do you do?
Barren: To attain my physical performance during the off-season, (one month in the summer), I run and do some weight lifting. I try to eat healthy as much as I can and eat carbs so I have energy. Most importantly, I try to build stamina.
NCSA: What is your favorite high school season moment?
Barren: My favorite high school season moment was going to state! The thrill of being under the big white lights and hearing the crowd roar gave me a whole new experience. It was exhilarating! Listening to pump up music and making up our own little cheers was quite amusing.
NCSA: Is your high school coach playing a role in your recruiting process?
Barren: Honestly, I don't know if my high school coach participates in my recruiting process.
NCSA: How important do you feel your high school season is in recruiting vs. club?
Barren: Personally, I feel like I have had more exposure through my club season vs. high school, since we have had such an amazing year. We generally took first in almost every tournament/national event we attended. This allowed our team a lot more recognition. However, attending state for my high school season has also allowed me to be acknowledged.
NCSA: How do you juggle volleyball, academics, and recruiting during the year?
Barren: Juggling volleyball, academics, and recruiting is very stressful. During the week I usually am doing my homework on the bus to games or in between games. Then on the weekend I find time to log into the computer and work on my recruiting process.
