“Volleyball is the only time I don’t feel my ADHD holding me back. At school, I’m constantly reminded of what I struggle with — I talk too much, I forget assignments, I get distracted. But on the court, I’m focused, fast, and confident. My teammates trust me. It’s the one place I feel capable — like I’m not just enough, I’m great.”

“I want to play in college like my big sister. She’s my hero. But my mom told me this year we can only afford one season for one of us. We share shoes, uniforms, rides. Every time I walk into the gym, I remind myself — this might be my last practice. That’s why I play every point like it’s everything, because for me, it really is.”

“Being on a team is the first time I felt I belonged anywhere. I’ve moved between three schools in the last five years. I don’t know my dad. My mom works nights. I’ve always felt like an outsider — except when I’m playing. My team is my anchor. They notice when I’m not there. They cheer me on. They see me.”

“My teammates are my family. Volleyball is my safe space. I’ve dealt with depression and anxiety, and it gets really dark sometimes. But I know that three times a week, I get to be in that gym, hear the ball echo, laugh during warmups, and forget everything else. Volleyball isn’t just a game to me — it’s how I hold on.”