Isabella Counsil '26 Recruiting Profile

My name is Izzy Counsil, and I am in the graduating class of 2026. I am a middle blocker for OTVA Jacksonville, and an outside hitter for Glynn Academy volleyball. Although I am only a freshman, I work hard to have above average grades, and I take all honors and AP classes to do so. I plan on taking many more AP classes next year as a sophomore and starting dual enrollment at the College of Coastal Georgia as a junior as well. I take advantage of every extra credit assignment as well as studying hard on my own time. I also put a maximum effort into my classes that don't necessarily contribute to my GPA average such as electives (Spanish Pathway, Weight Training, etc). I am also an active member of DECA (Distributive Education Club of America) and complete several hours of community service each month. I am just beginning to compete in leadership and marketing competitions as a member of DECA and my goal is to earn a place of leadership in this club. I also am a member of FCA (Fellowship of Christian Athletes) and strive to make it to each meeting early before school and discuss my beliefs with my fellow athletes. 

I drive about an hour to and from club practice three to four days a week during club season, and go to practice directly after school every day of the week during school volleyball season. Late nights and early mornings don't take away from the effort that I put into my school work and on improving my volleyball skills and IQ. I work well under pressure, and my quickly-paced lifestyle suits me well; I am able to constantly improve my time management as well as my mental strength which is an incredibly important part of the game of volleyball. 

As a Christian, maintaining my spiritual health and relationship with Christ is at the top of my priority list. I diligently strive to achieve the most in every opportunity God blesses me with in an effort to honor Him in all that I do. I am confident that the gifts He has blessed me with can be used to further His kingdom as long as I continue to respond to His calling for me. Volleyball isn't just my sport or my passion, but also my calling. 

I am eager for the upcoming club season where I am playing with Coach Will Berdecia's 15 Open team as a middle blocker. I hope that you can find time in your busy schedules to come watch me and my team as we travel the country to compete in several large tournaments such as Triple Crown, Big South Qualifier, JNQ-Northern Lights, Sunshine Qualifier, and JNQ-Salt Lake City.