As freshmen, coming to high school, knowing we are guaranteed to be part of a team and group is a great feeling. One of the most popular sports among freshmen girls is volleyball. With a 5-1 record so far, this current team plans to continue on a path to success.

One of the best features of being on a high school sports team is the bonding of teammates. According to Elizabeth Fitter, who is player on the freshmen volleyball team, “I would say that it’s definitely not an easy sport to play, but it’s definitely worth it and you become so close with your team.” Not only do students learn how to work in a team, but they also learn sportsmanship and learn basic volleyball skills.  Fitter also says that one of her many goals is “to become a better passer and hitter.” She says that along with the volleyball skills, the team works on conditioning and running.

Sarah Ahmad, another student who plays for the freshmen volleyball team, started volleyball with no experience. She says that her friends Emma Matthews and Abbey Reicher have been her biggest motivations since the start of the season. One piece of advice Ahmad would like to give to other beginners to the sport is: “Never give up and always try your hardest.” She emphasizes to always motivate yourself and to be you.

The freshmen volleyball coach, Megan Cockcroft, has been working very hard this season with all the players. She says that our team here at Hawthorne High School is extremely advanced compared to other freshmen teams in the area. Coach Cockroft states, “This team specifically has worked so hard since the very first day of pre-season. We have our strong points such as serving, blocking, digging, and taking on huge roles on and off the court.” She encourages everyone to come try out volleyball if interested. She says, “Yes! Play, Play Play! Touch a volleyball any chance you can get.” Coach Cockroft works very hard to help the girls take their volleyball skills to the next level, but she says that all their motivation comes from each other.

Let us wish our freshmen girls’ volleyball team luck for the rest of their season and make an effort to support them in games and events! GO BEARS!