Ciera Ross '22 Recruiting Profile

As a senior at University Laboratory School in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, I've spent nearly 7 years devoting my time, passion, and dedication to playing on an Elite high school team and playing for a national AAU volleyball team. My sister was the first person to introduce me to the world of volleyball; she was also my first teacher. I fell in love with the team, sportsmanship, intensity, and competition. My sister was a highly recruited player but unfortunately passed away in 2017 shortly after playing in her volleyball game; she did not live out her dream. From there, volleyball became more than just a sport for me, it became a force for my ambition, motivation, and it gave me the strength I needed to continue. I play for not only myself but for her because she couldn't. It was indeed the most challenging obstacle I have ever had to overcome, but I did with the help of my teammates and coaches. However, just when I thought my love for volleyball would flourish, the following year, I was faced with an ACL injury that would take me out of the game for a year. My drive to overcome meant more than just recovering and getting back on the court, it was a life journey, a commitment, and it taught me how to learn while sitting on the sidelines. I never missed any practices or games. Instead, I educated myself from the sidelines, saw the court from an entirely different viewpoint, encouraged my teammates to be positive, lifted those who were down, and cheered my teammates on.

At the time, I was too young to realize the lifelong impact volleyball would have and the heartfelt meaning the sport means to me. The phrase "volleyball" or "team" has a different value; it has become the sisterhood I need. During these events, my experiences and reflections have driven me to further my education, skills, training, and collegiate volleyball career. Volleyball is my passion—a sport I have devoted my energy and my utmost dedication to. Sportsmanship has given me my greatest ambition and personal growth. I am a good listener, criticism has become my best friend, and I am coachable. My goals and aspirations in my collegiate career would be to go to a suitable academic college to help me pursue my career and improve as a volleyball player.