- 2022 Highlights
Personal Statement
My name is Briana and I am a Middle Hitter for Columbia Volleyball Academy and Our Lady of Good Counsel High School’s varsity team. I strive to become the best student and player that I can be. I am determined to work hard both on and off the court, athletically and academically. Playing volleyball at the collegiate level would be the ultimate accomplishment for me. I believe that the difference between a “good” player and a ”great” player is her level of mental toughness, physical preparedness, and commitment to the game. While all of these attributes are extremely important, I believe that my mental toughness sets me apart. I’ve been taught, from a young age that though I may not be able to control everything that is happening on the court, I am in complete control of myself. Therefore, I aim to be a very positive and uplifting teammate.
I have played a large variety of sports since I’ve been able to walk, including soccer, basketball, baseball, swim and dive, track and field, and most importantly, dance. Over my 11 years of dancing, I have learned the importance of patience, focus, and communication. I believe these attributes make great players. I was very passionate about dance and assumed the leadership role even though I was always the youngest in the high-level classes. When the dance and volleyball seasons began to overlap, I decided to take all of the skills I acquired, stop dancing, and focus on volleyball. I believe in leading by example rather than waiting on others to take the lead.
I have recently been named to the AVCA Phenom List, JVA Watchlist, and named Honorable mention for the Washington Catholic Athletic Conference. I am the Team Captain of Columbia Volleyball Academy’s 17 Red Volleyball Team. I was inducted into the Xaverian Chapter of the National Honors Society where I can put my leadership skills to use, tutoring those who need extra help in my community, and providing service to those who are less fortunate than me. I have also earned a leadership position for campus Ministry where I can lead retreats and guide younger students through their religious journeys and assist them with their service projects.
I recently had the honor of receiving the Hugh O’Brian Youth Leadership Award for the class of 2023. I was therefore invited to represent Good Counsel at the Hoby Leadership Seminar, focusing on leadership, service, scholarship, and character. I consider this a huge honor as I was able to strengthen my leadership skills and learn from others who are both similar and different from me. I use those skills that I learned every day when I tutor kids, work on group projects in class, and play on my high school and club teams. All of the accolades I have earned emphasize how important it is for me to work hard towards success. I am interested in studying pre-law in college which requires rigor and determination. I believe the skills I acquired and continue to improve upon have developed me into a well-rounded person, allowing me to be successful both academically and athletically and will help me later in my personal and professional life.
