Ella Sokolowski '21 Recruiting Profile

    An interesting fact about me is I attend a naval military school that centers around independence, leadership, physical fitness and a STEM academic program. I have actually attended the school since kindergarten. During my time at the school, I've have been able to play many sports aside from just club volleyball. The school is also small and this is a challenge while playing on a high school team with only 1 other true volleyball player. It  has taught me to become a better leader and step up to roles and positions as needed. For example, on my club teams I exclusively play outside/opposite, but during the school season I am required to be a setter for the past three years in our 6/2 system our coach has decided to run.

    The past two club seasons have also taught me some valuable character traits. Last season I switched clubs and was put on the second U16 team. This was a disappointment because at my original club, I was always on the top team. During U16 season and this recent off-season,  I worked extremely hard and set a goal to make it on the top U17 team. This season, my hard work payed off and I earned myself a spot on the top team. I realize I'm faced with more challenges regarding playing time and competition level. I still have to compete for a starting position and more playing time because we are all higher level players. I feel like I have raised my game and the feedback from my coaches has been very positive during our first preseason tournament and practices. The reward of making it on this top team has just pushed me to work harder since we are setting our sights on a trip to nationals like this team had done last year.