Personal Statement

I have loved the game of volleyball ever since I first stepped onto the court in sixth grade and I quickly developed a goal to play at the collegiate level. I am currently a Junior year at Benet Academy in Lisle, IL where I started this season as a right-side hitter. We finished 2nd in the state this year and were ranked in the Top 15 nationally. I am also an outside hitter (recently moved from middle) for Sports Performance in Aurora, IL.   I am playing all 6 rotations and have been named a co-captain for 17 Marshall.  I am excited to be on the court more and look forward to having an even bigger impact on the outside.

Last season, I split time between our 16 Elite (1st team) and 16 Cfed (2nd team) where I was also a captain.  While on 16 Elite, I was a 6-rotation middle, who made a real impact both offensively and defensively.  I am very coachable, have a high volleyball IQ and a high-octane engine, and strive to be a great teammate, putting the team and the club first.  Additionally, I have an admirable work ethic, and you can often find me in the gym getting in extra reps on both off days and before practice. I know I have a lot of room for growth, but I will never be outworked. This fighting spirit was recognized by my club when I was awarded the Christina Federico Fighting Spirit Award, which is given out to the player that most exemplifies grit, determination, and work ethic.  This fall, I am working hard to improve my vertical and arm swing and am doing dedicated training with those goals in mind. I’m confident that I’ll be able to add meaningful inches to my current reach and improve my swing speed. 

Off the court, I am an excellent student and work as hard in the classroom as I do in the gym.  I challenge myself academically, attending a rigorous high school while taking a full honors and AP course load.  I have made the Honor Roll with Highest Distinction every semester and was recently inducted into the National Honor Society (NHS) and the National Society of High School Scholars (NSHSS).  I recently scored a 33 on my ACT and a 1450 on my PSAT.  My hope is to earn my bachelor’s degree before attending graduate school to become a nurse anesthetist. 

Outside of the classroom, I coach youth volleyball at my club and I love to see young girls fall in love with the sport for the very first time, while helping them develop fundamental skills. I know the impact great coaches have had on me, so I strive to be that type of positive influence on my players. I am also a Student Ambassador and a member of Student Support Alliance, Bible Cafe, and Current Events Club, where I am the president.  

At home, I have a wonderfully supportive family, who gives me lots of opportunities to pursue my dreams, while becoming a servant leader. My faith is very important to me and I strive to become more of a Godly woman every day. When I’m not studying or playing volleyball, I love listening to country music, reading, traveling, baking, and hanging out with friends. 

While I continue to develop as an elite player, I’ve had a terrific club season and look forward to building on the success of this year. I very much believe my best days are still ahead of me.  I know I’m competing with a lot of talented young women but I think I may be an overlooked player who can really make an impact in the years ahead.  

Thank you in advance for taking the time to review my profile. I am grateful for your consideration.

Sincerely,

Sophia Pursley