Claire Hammond '25 Recruiting Profile

My love for volleyball began when I was just 8 years old. I was instantly captivated by the sport and knew that it was something I wanted to pursue passionately. By the time I was 9, I had already joined a club volleyball team. It was an incredible experience for me, as I got to train with other dedicated players and learn from experienced coaches.

However, when I was in 6th grade, my world took an unexpected turn. My mom had to undergo brain surgery. It was a challenging time for my family, but despite the circumstances, I never missed a single practice or game. Volleyball became my source of strength and resilience during that period. It taught me the importance of dedication and perseverance.

Even during the COVID-19 pandemic, when everything seemed uncertain, I found a way to continue my training. I worked with Sheri Sanders and Joel Blocksom, at American Sports Center in Anaheim Ca. Whenever the gym could be opened which helped me stay connected to the sport. It was during this time that I had the incredible opportunity to meet Jenna Gray, a volleyball player I had always admired, at the University of Hawaii vs Stanford men's volleyball game. It was a moment that fueled my determination to excel in the sport even more.

When I entered high school, I had the privilege of playing as the starting setter for the varsity team in my freshman and sophomore years. It was a great honor and a testament to the hard work and dedication I had put into the sport.

During my junior year, I faced another significant change when my family moved to Tennessee. It was a bittersweet moment as I had to leave behind my previous team and start anew. However, I saw it as an opportunity to grow and push myself even further. As I progressed at my new high school, I continued to thrive in my new position as an outside player. I embraced the challenge and worked hard to excel in this role. Playing as an outside hitter allowed me to showcase my versatility and adaptability on the court. I was able to contribute both offensively and defensively, making an impact in every game.

I quickly connected with the local volleyball community and joined Tennessee Performance Volleyball, a highly respected club team.

Being a part of the 18-2 team at Tennessee Performance is an incredible experience. The level of competition is intense, and it pushed me to elevate my game. As the starting setter, I took on the responsibility of leading the team's offense and ensuring smooth coordination with my teammates. It was a role I embraced wholeheartedly, always striving to make the best decisions and set up scoring opportunities for my teammates.

Throughout my volleyball journey, I have always prided myself on being a team player. I believe that the success of a team depends on the collective effort and support of every member. I have consistently maintained a positive attitude, encouraging my teammates and fostering a strong sense of camaraderie. I am always willing to go the extra mile, whether it's diving for a ball, making a difficult set, or cheering my teammates on from the sidelines.

Volleyball has taught me invaluable life lessons. It has taught me the importance of discipline, perseverance, and resilience. It has shown me that with dedication and hard work, I can overcome any obstacle that comes my way. Through the sport, I have developed a strong work ethic and a relentless drive for improvement.

Looking ahead, I am excited to continue my volleyball journey. I aspire to play at the collegiate level and further hone my skills. I am eager to contribute to a team that shares my passion and values, where I can continue to grow as an athlete and as a person.

Volleyball will always hold a special place in my heart. It has been more than just a sport for me; it has been a source of joy, growth, and inspiration. I am grateful for every opportunity and experience it has provided me, and I cannot wait to see where this incredible journey takes me next.