Alyssa Gerzel '21 Recruiting Profile

After years of trying many different sports it wasn’t until I first touched a beach volleyball did I find my passion and competitive spirit.  I started at the Park District, but immediately needed more competition and a higher level of play… I could not get enough! Moving to club volleyball was the first step to what became my dream of playing collegiate volleyball.

I have been playing beach and indoor volleyball since I was 10 years old.  I’ve been with the Wisconsin Juniors organization since I first began club volleyball and am currently on the 16 1’s team as a lefty, right side hitter. I am very coach-able and strive to be the best leader and team motivator on the court.  In 2018 I was selected to be part of the Badger Region High Performance Camp, and it was an amazing experience!

Each summer I play as much beach volleyball as I can.  Not only do you get more touches on the ball by playing all positions, but it improves leadership and communication skills due to the independence on the court with a partner. I always end the summer better and stronger than when I started. In 2017 and 2018 I won National bids to both Florida and Georgia and numerous tournaments and a college showcase. I had the opportunity one time to go to Florida and came in 10^th in the open division, but was the best and most competitive experience with girls that are lucky enough to play most of the year.

I am currently a sophomore at Grayslake North and have been a key contributor on the varsity team since my freshman year.  I was voted All-Conference 2017 and 2018, as well as All-Area in 2018 (Daily Herald) and voted for the All-Out award by my team members.  I have made the Grayslake North Record books for 1^st in Most Kills in a Season, currently 2^nd for Most Kills in a Career, 2^nd, 3^rd and 4^th for Most Kills in a Match and 4^th in Most Aces in a Match.

Between these three volleyball seasons I am on the court almost year round; but when I’m not my favorite hobby is working out and weight lifting.  I love physical fitness and learning more about healthy nutrition.  I also volunteer at the town library, Feed My Starving Children, for my volleyball club and with the high school helping incoming freshman with volleyball camp.

I am an Honor and AP student with a strong 3.93 cumulative GPA through 1^st semester sophomore year.  I am searching for a smaller college with both a high level of competitive volleyball and challenging academics.  Although I have not narrowed down my major yet I know how dedicated I am at everything I do and the right college will help me find my path to success.

Alyssa Gerzel

Class of 2021