Wellesley College offers many opportunities, communities and teams through which students can get involved. The volleyball team in particular has been in the spotlight recently. Already off to a great start with a 7-0 record and great team dynamics, the volleyball team is setting up a phenomenal season both on and off the court. “The team is 18 strong this year, which is fairly large for volleyball,” says Yasmine Reece ’19. “Every member of this team truly brings something unique to the court, and we all really gel together as a unit.” The players get along extremely well, exemplify teamwork and they’re even setting records.
This season, two seniors on the volleyball team, Reece and Samantha Hoang ’19, have already reached career milestones that have become huge motivators for the team as a whole. Just days ago, Reece, a middle hitter, achieved her one thousandth career kill, which is when a player earns the team a point spiking the ball over the net in a way that makes it impossible to save. Similarly, Hoang, the libero, performed her one thousandth career dig, a dive to the ground to save the ball from hitting the floor after an intended kill from the opposing team.
Neither of these milestones came as a shock to the players, as they have been working diligently towards the achievements for four years. However, both Reece and Hoang were overwhelmed by the feeling of pride and success that washed over them upon hearing they had finally reached their goal. When asked how surreal the moment was for her, Hoang said, “Besides just being a career milestone, it was so uplifting because all of the behind the scenes work in practice, weight training and working out over breaks really paid off and all of the effort, sweat and tears have finally come into the light.” Similarly, Reece recalls, “All of the ups and downs over the last four years really culminated for me in that moment. Remembering all of the time, energy and effort that was sacrificed throughout my volleyball career was so satisfying. I may have cried!”
Even if they had not achieved their goals, both Reece and Hoang stated they would be extremely pleased with the season thus far. Speaking of how she usually judges the future of the team, Hoang says, “The first game always gives us a gauge of how the season will go and it went really well this year. I think we’ll go much further in the NCAA Tournament this year.” Watching their teammates work hard in every practice, game and workout has been incredibly rewarding and has helped the team to grow closer together. The motivation and talent of other members on the court inspires them to work harder and play better because they can’t win if they work alone. The only wish Reese and Hoang still have for the season is to see more participation from non-athlete students. Hoang cannot stress enough how hard the student athletes work, and how rewarding it is to see their classmates and peers in the stands during a game. Reece completely agrees, saying, “It means a lot to the team to have a strong turnout at every game. The fan energy really does make us play better!” Well, Wellesley, there is no better way to procrastinate on your homework for another hour or so. Get out there and support the Wellesley Blue! See you at the next game.