I started playing volleyball in the summer after Grade 9. I was bored and looking for something to do, so I asked my dad—who played at a high level back home—to teach me the basics. That summer, I practiced every day and quickly fell in love with the sport.
I went on to play for my school team for one season, as we did not have enough players to continue the following year. From there, I played in many different environments and at various levels. While I never reached the level I had hoped for due to a knee injury, I continued playing because I wanted to stay connected to the sport.
Eventually, I realized that coaching would be my path forward. Volleyball had been a meaningful part of my childhood and teenage years, and I wanted to remain involved in the game that gave me so much. I discovered that I genuinely enjoy helping young athletes improve and build confidence. There is nothing I would trade for the moment when an athlete gets excited after learning a new skill.
Although I am still early in my coaching journey and have much to learn, I have already realized that coaching is just as rewarding as playing—and in many ways, just as special.