“I didn’t discover volleyball until I was 13 (pictured), which felt late at the time, but it only took one recreational league practice for it to stick. During a period of friendship turbulence and school anxiety, it gave me something rare: a space where my mind could quiet down and I felt powerful.

At 5’2, I was never the tallest player on the court, but I learned quickly how to prove myself and, just as importantly, how to trust my place on a team. Over time, I built close friendships through the sport and experienced both team wins and personal growth in skill, confidence, and emotional resilience. I went on to compete nationally and coach younger athletes throughout high school.

Now I’m 25 and still playing. In a new city, volleyball has once again become one of the easiest ways to build community, particularly with other lesbians and queer individuals. What once helped me get through harder seasons of life continues to meet me exactly where I am. I don’t know who I’d be without it!”