Sophomore Haleigh Calhoun steps onto the court, slapping a teammate’s hand as she moves toward the corner. She leans her head down to pray before the first serve. Raising her hands, she jumps level with the net to block an incoming ball.

In fourth grade Calhoun started playing volleyball, and quit playing softball and basketball at the same time.

“I had been playing for so long; I just got tired of them, so I started to play volleyball, which was something new that not many people played,” Calhoun said.

The coaches appreciate her presence on the junior varsity team.

“I think Haleigh adds personality to the program and team. She is always super helpful and definitely one of those kids that is organized, and I can trust her to get stuff done,” Coach Chandler said.

After receiving her inspiration from professional sand volleyball player Kerri Walsh, Calhoun began to practice sand volleyball during the summer.

“She is an amazing volleyball player, I’d like to be as good as her someday,” Calhoun said.

Although attaining her aspiration of playing professional volleyball, Calhoun understands to importance of prioritizing. 

“If I get good enough, I’ll play pro, but playing in college is my dream and I have to focus on one thing at a time,” Calhoun said.