Vivian Mendoza Montanez '24 Recruiting Profile

For me, volleyball was more than just a game; it was a passion that consumed my every thought. However, a knee injury threatened to shatter my dreams and steal away the joy I found on the court. With the unwavering support of my family and dedicated doctors, I embarked on a challenging journey towards recovery. It was a path marked by moments of doubt, struggles with confidence, and a mental health crisis. Yet, through it all, I learned the invaluable lesson that patience is the key to overcoming adversity and reclaiming the love for the sport that defined me.

My love for volleyball ran deep, driving me to give my all on the court. However, a knee injury abruptly halted my dreams. The news of my injury left me devastated, questioning my future in the sport I held dear. It was a dark time, filled with uncertainty and a loss of hope. Yet, my family stood by my side, offering unwavering support and reminding me that setbacks are just a part of the journey. Their encouragement and belief in my resilience became the foundation upon which I began my path to recovery.

As I started the journey of rehabilitation, I faced the harsh reality that my comeback would not be a smooth one. Doubts and insecurities crept in as I struggled with regaining my confidence. The fear of reinjury and the frustration of not being able to perform at the level I once did threatened to consume me. However, with the unwavering support of my teammates, coach, and family, I found solace and strength. Their words of encouragement, understanding, and the camaraderie we shared lifted my spirits and gave me the courage to keep pushing forward.

Despite my physical progress, I faced an unexpected battle with my mental health. The long and arduous process of rehabilitation took a toll on my well-being, and I found myself sinking into a state of despair. The once burning passion for volleyball seemed to flicker, and I lost motivation to do anything but sleep. However, it was during this dark period that I realized the importance of patience. By learning to be patient with my recovery, allowing myself time to heal both physically and mentally, I began to see glimmers of hope. Through therapy, self-care, and the unwavering support of my loved ones, I gradually rekindled the fire within me and found the strength to persevere.

My journey from injury to recovery was far from easy, but it taught me invaluable lessons that extend beyond the volleyball court. The unwavering support of my family, doctors, teammates, and coach provided me with a lifeline during my darkest moments. Through patience and perseverance, I learned that setbacks do not define us, but rather how we respond to them shapes our character. Volleyball, once again, became my sanctuary, a place where I could embrace my love for the game and appreciate the resilience I had developed. I now understand that with patience and a strong support system, there is no obstacle too great to overcome, both on and off the court.