An Athletic Identity by Bethany

An Athletic Identity by Bethany - January 2026 Scholarship Essay

When I was a freshman in high school, I found a new strength in myself. When I started high school, I tried out and made my school’s volleyball team. I did not realize it at the time, but that would alter me permanently. Before volleyball, I did not have a real athletic identity. There was not a sport that I loved playing. Once I started playing, I never stopped. I played all four years of high school volleyball. I worked hard to keep myself in shape by going to the gym and practicing volleyball all the time. I joined a club team that traveled around the country to play volleyball. I won many awards, such as the All-Star Team in my division, being a varsity captain, and the Best Middle in Group 3 award. Being on so many different teams throughout the years allowed me to make many new friends that I still have today. Volleyball allowed me to gain leadership skills, and it showed me where I belong. It helped me to be more disciplined and confident as a person. It caused me to grow in so many ways, and I do not know what I would do without it. I am so grateful for volleyball and the athletic identity it gave me.