Ellee

What do they love most about playing their sport(s)?

Ellee loves the competition, intensity, and adrenaline of volleyball. She loves the excitement of a powerful attack, making an unbelievable save, and especially, as a setter, putting the ball exactly where her hitter needs it and watching them put it away. She played soccer and tried other sports growing up, but volleyball was different. It became the sport she truly fell in love with. She loves that every point gives her another chance to compete, push herself, and help her team succeed.

Who inspires them—on or off the field—and why?

Ellee is inspired most by the people beside her. Her teammates push her to become the best player she can be because she wants to be the setter and teammate they can always depend on. Her coaches challenge her to grow, but her dad has also been a lifelong inspiration. He was an exceptional athlete, often one of the best at whatever sport he played, and she grew up seeing that. His ability and competitive drive gave her a desire to show him just how great an athlete she could become too.

What’s one moment in their athletic journey that makes you proudest?

It’s almost impossible to choose one moment because every time I watch Ellee step onto that court, she makes me proud. I’m proud of the incredible saves, the beautiful sets, the long serving runs and the points she fights for, but I’m even prouder of who she is between those moments. She encourages her teammates, celebrates their success and lifts them up when they’re struggling. On the court or off, she leads with heart. Watching the person and leader she has become will always be what makes me