Ellie Leone '26 Recruiting Profile

As a three-sport athlete, I've gained valuable insights into myself through my involvement in volleyball, basketball, and lacrosse. Volleyball wasn't always on my list; soccer used to be my third sport.  However, in the Fall of 2021, I faced a significant challenge when I got Long Haul Covid.  This condition affected my ability to run for extended periods, kept my oxygen levels low, and made me easily fatigued.

Refusing to give in to the symptoms, I decided to give volleyball a try.  To my delight, I quickly fell in love with the sport.  My experience and athleticism from other sports seamlessly translated into the skills needed for volleyball.  With a natural ability to see the entire court, quick footwork, and anticipation of changes, volleyball felt like the perfect fit.

Long Haul Covid created the most substantial challenges in my life, impacting every aspect.  I had to make tough decisions about where to devote my physical and mental energy.   Recognizing the importance of school and sports, I, a fun-loving social person, had to prioritize my well-being daily.  With support from my family I was able to learn the importance of tending to both my physical and emotional well-being.

I love learning, whether its academics or random life facts.  Academics has always been an area of strength.  I am focused on maintaining a high GPA, taking classes that challenge me to develop critical thinking skills and increase my awareness of world issues.  Right now, my plan for college is to get an undergraduate degree in psychology.  I am open to understanding alternative perspective then consider how the perspective fit with my values and beliefs.  I think my openness also makes me very coachable on the court, and I am eager to improve.

I am excited to see where my academics and athletics take me, I want to continue to improve in my athletic skills and my academics, and enjoy all the experiences that come with being apart of a group working toward a common goal and support each other to grow.