- 2020 Spotlight
Personal Statement
Hello people of interest, my name is Ellie Schmidgall. I have been playing volleyball since the school offered Rec programs for those starting at age 6. I have also participated in soccer, softball, basketball, and dance throughout the years until high school. I am now a two sport high school athlete taking part in cheerleading and volleyball, but my main focus has been on volleyball ever since I could hold one.
During my sophomore year of high school volleyball, I was one of three girls who were pulled up to practice and potentially play with the very competitive varsity team. As a junior, I stared in every game as an all around outside hitter. During some games, I played as a DS or Libero when needed because my couch knew he could count on me to play that position well. I also played club volleyball for two years.
My profile states that I am a 5' 6" outside hitter, which is true. Many people immediately assume I am too short to play this position compared to all the others, but I do not think that. For being how tall I am, I have a great vertical and can jump just as high as those who are inches taller than me. I know that my height isn't ideal for an outside hitting position, but that is where I get my motivation. I strive to prove others that I can play this position just as well as taller players can. I don't settle, I persist. I am more than willing to play other positions that are offered, but that too won't stop me from training to be a great outside hitter one day.
I am not only motivated on the court, but also in the classroom and community. I maintain a 4.0 GPA while taking AP and honors courses at Deer Creek Mackinaw High School. I have always been an over achiever, perfectionist, and a hard worker. I participate in many church events and groups which strengthens my faith and occupies the rest of my time. My goal is to find a college that will offer me great athletic and academic opportunities.
