Playing a sport can be a life changing experience for many high school students. It can serve as a source of self-discovery, in which we learn of our true capabilities, leadership qualities, or personal strengths. In addition, participating in a sport can build a bridge between the athletes and their student body through new friendships and team spirit formed throughout the season. These things do not end when the season comes to a close, rather, they continue to grow throughout the school year and beyond.

I experienced these things while playing volleyball. Volleyball has given me inner confidence and strength that were manifested doing drills with my team at practice, and putting myself to the test at the net on game night. I met girls from different grade levels who each brought something different to the table, but when we all got together on the court, magical things happened.

The following are the most important reasons why playing volleyball changed my life.

I gained new friends who were supportive on and off the court.

Most front row hitters understand the important bond that is formed with the team setter(s). You have to be able to communicate with each other in order to make amazing things happen. Trust is essential in this relationship: the hitter must trust the setter to hear their call and respond accordingly, and the setter must trust the hitter to be there to receive it. This is a good representation of life off the court as well. Having a bond with your teammate makes life easier in settings other than practice and games.

I became stronger: physically and mentally.

I was motivated by my coaches and teammates to become a better player every day, growing stronger with each hitting or serving drill. I wanted to be the best captain possible and best teammate possible, becoming more and more capable as the season went on. Not only was my shoulder feeling the burn, but my brain was as well. Keeping a positive attitude while playing a notoriously strong team in order to lift my teammates' spirits was a skill I was determined to master. Battling my own instincts to give in to a pessimistic attitude when things get tough is a skill I honed while playing volleyball, and I apply it to everyday life.

I fell in love with the game.

It makes me happy. Practicing, competing, even just talking about it. The feeling when you watch your teammate streak 10 aces; the feeling of the ball shooting off of your arms and hands when you block a hard hitter. Feelings that can only come from playing a sport you truly love; a sport that has changed your life for the better.