Heidi Batres '17 Recruiting Profile

I grew up playing volleyball.  I immediately had an interest in the sport and nothing else seemed to give me the same feeling that volleyball did.  My dad reminded me that this was not just a physical game, that it was very much a mental game as well.  That to be a great player I had to not only out-play the other team but out-smart them.  I grew up with the mentality that being average is not good enough.

I use this mentality in sports and in school.  My academic goals in high school are to have a GPA above a 4.0, that in every class I give more than the requirement and to always improve.  Nothing is perfect and there is always stuff to improve on so I'm working to get as close to perfection as I can.  I want my grades and my hard work in school to be what gets me into a good college.  And once I'm at my ideal college I want to continue to strive for that higher level no matter how hard it may be.

I believe that what sets me apart from the other players is my dedication and academics.  Yes, being a great student helps to get into colleges but everything I learn in school can be applied to make me a better player.  I work hard to keep my place as a starting player.  I understand very well that nothing is given to you for free.  If you're not willing to work for it, don't bother playing.  Also, it has taught me to be aware of people around me.  On the court, I have 5 other players that I need to keep track of as a setter and know every rotation.  I have to know when somebody is starting to get down and how to re-engage her into the game.  I believe that a setter is not just responsible for running the offense of the team but also to make sure that the atmosphere on the court is a positive one.  Volleyball has been my whole life and to be able to continue to play in college would be a dream come true.  As long as I am a good fit for the team and it has a good atmosphere I will be happy at any school.