Personal Statement
Hi, my name is Paige Stepaniuk. At the moment, March 2021, I am 16 years old, I have played club volleyball for 7 years, and I am wanting to play competitive Division 1 college volleyball. I am a libero/defensive specialist and have playing in that position for roughly 7 years. I have also been playing beach volleyball for many years at Aloha Beach Volleyball Club for Lisa and Gary Van Sickle. I started volleyball when I was 8, third grade, and ever since 4th grade I have played club volleyball in Washington. Defense has definitely been my main focus as I am fast and can read the play very well.
Before I started volleyball, I did taekwondo for 3 years and I also played soccer for two years. I decided to start to play volleyball because I wanted to try it, it was definitely something different than I have ever done, but I loved it. I would say I am definitely athletic. I haven’t played many club sports other than volleyball but often athletic activities come pretty easy to me. Which I think is what helped me a lot through my first few years of playing. As I’ve gotten older I’ve had to work to improve my technique and skill with school ball, beach volleyball, club volleyball, private coaching sessions, and athletic training. My older sister, who is a libero/ds, was recruited and is playing division 1 volleyball at CU Boulder.
One reason I continue to play and love the sport is the way it makes me feel. When I’m out on the court everything else in my life is out of my mind. My head is in the game, especially in tough, competitive games. I get additional challenges playing and practicing with the older divisions in my club. When I get an amazing dig, or this perfect, solid pass, it’s the best feeling ever. Even when my teammate gets a stuff block, kill, or amazing up, I feel that enjoyment, and I get so excited. I get this rush through my body that is like something I’ve never felt.
Paige Stepaniuk
Libero/DS – Class 2023