Ryah Cotton '27 Recruiting Profile

From the moment I stepped onto the court for the first time, I felt an immediate connection to volleyball.  The pace of the game, the team connection, and the thrill of a perfectly executed play all captivated me.  Since then, I have poured my heart and soul into perfecting my skills and improving as a player. My ultimate dream is to play college volleyball at an elite level.

One of the aspects I love most about volleyball is its reliance on teamwork.  I believe that effective communication, especially as a Setter, is the key to a well-functioning team.  I always strive to be the vocal leader on the court, encouraging my teammates, and bringing the energy.

I am also a highly competitive individual.  I always push myself to be the best that I can be and constantly seek out opportunities to challenge myself.  Whether it be attending extra training sessions, growing my strength in the gym, or even watching game footage to analyze my own performance, I am always looking for ways to improve and grow as a player.

Volleyball has taught me valuable life lessons that extend beyond the court.  It has taught me the importance of being resilient and adaptable.  It has also taught me how to handle both success and failure with grace and humility.  These lessons have shaped me into a well-rounded individual and have instilled in me a strong sense of discipline and determination. 

Outside of volleyball, I am a multi-sport high school athlete, a member of the honor role, and a straight ‘A’ student. When I’m not playing volleyball, golfing or studying, my hobbies include wake surfing, pickleball, swimming, running and spending time with friends and family.  I strive to be better every day in whatever I take part in, and I’m thrilled to see where my athletic career takes me.