Daniel Xiao '19 Recruiting Profile

My name is Daniel Xiao, and I am a rising Senior at The College Preparatory School in Oakland, California. I have played 3 years of high school volleyball, as well as 3 years of club volleyball and 2 extended seasons. I was chosen to be a team captain of my high school volleyball team as a junior, and was selected for the All-League 1st team this season. 

On the court, I consider myself a smart and athletic player. I excel at hitting around, through, and over blocks as well as knowing when and where to tip the ball. I have gained a unique set of skills because of my experience as a setter, middle, and opposite. This allows me to be a more well-rounded player because of a combination of good setting, blocking, and hitting skills. I play all the way around in high school, which allows me to hone my passing technique as well as my middle blocker skill set. I can also serve strong jump float, jump topspin, and hybrid serves (float toss with topspin). I am a player with a strong work ethic, and always am looking to improve my game whenever I can by asking questions, watching film, and spending extra time before and after practices. As team captain, I have also gained a keen understanding of team dynamics and the importance of supporting my teammates at all times regardless of the score. I have also mentored many of our new players and introduced them to the game of volleyball. I believe my unique set of skills, leadership, and work ethic can be a useful asset to any volleyball team.

I have the same determination and work ethic off the court. I plan on majoring in either Chemical Engineering or Materials Science, and pursuing a career in those fields. I have a strong academic background, and have seized every opportunity I can to learn more about the world of research through internships, summer camps, and online programs. I have a 35 ACT score as well as 800's in both subject tests I've taken (Math 2 and Chemistry). I am looking to attend a school that provides rigorous academics in which I can flourish, and am looking to challenge myself in class and on the court. I hope to attend a school with strong balance of athletics and academics, and am looking forward to compete at the next level.