Tanea Loa '23 Recruiting Profile

Aloha,

Growing up in Hawaii, I was always taller than other kids my age. I was originally a basketball player, but one day I asked my mom what volleyball was, and the next day, I was signed up. I have first started league volleyball when I was 7 years old. Then, I started playing club at 9 years old and ever since then, I knew I wanted to play at the collegiate level. I was more developed than other kids my age so I used most of my time getting stronger and trying to improve my fundamentals. Ever since then, my love for the game never left.  It was more than just a game for me. Being an only child to a single mother, volleyball was and still is one of the few ways I spend extra time bonding with her. Whether it be her watching my games or just us peppering during our free time, she has been there through it all. This is a dream I am willing to work hard for. Getting to play in college will not only help me become a better student, it will also help my family financially. 

For club volleyball, I have always played in older age groups up until my freshman year. Going from being the youngest on the team, to the oldest was definitely a big challenge for me. Freshman season, I learned to step up and be a leader in both school season and club season. I  learned the most through different coaches and environments. This season I am  a team captain on my club team. Taking this role of leadership has definitely been a big challenge but it's something I love to embrace. 

Mahalo,

Tanea Loa