Priya

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

Priya loves the challenge of getting better. Whether she’s learning a new volleyball skill or working on her shot and ball handling in basketball, she enjoys seeing hard work turn into progress. She loves competing, being part of a team, and the confidence that comes from doing something today that she couldn’t do yesterday. Most of all, sports give her a chance to have fun, challenge herself, and discover just how much she is capable of.

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

Priya is inspired by her dad and older sister. Growing up with a dad who coaches and trains basketball introduced her to the game, but her sister helped her fall in love with playing it. When her sister tore her ACL, Priya saw firsthand how quickly sports can change and how important perseverance is. They inspire her in different ways. Her dad teaches her the game, while her sister reminds her to enjoy it, stay strong and never take the opportunity to play for granted.

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

My proudest moment wasn’t simply watching Priya score 18 of her team’s 25 points in their first win. It was knowing what came before it. Her first few games were an adjustment. She was learning how to compete on a team, building confidence and figuring out where she belonged. Instead of getting discouraged, she kept working. That game was the moment everything started to click. The points were special, but watching her hard work turn into confidence meant even more.