VOLLEYBALL isn’t just about scoring point after point; it’s about the players behind each serve and dig. The Lady Cougars are more than athletes—they are students with unique motivations and stories. What really goes through their minds during the season?

MANY believe there are always two sides to every story, making it important to acknowledge the player as well as the game. Interviewing athletes helps audiences understand their perspectives and even helps players discover more about themselves. Several varsity volleyball players shared what goes through their minds during the season.

“My purpose is my parents and what they’ve sacrificed for me, plus for my teammates because we go through every game and practice together,” Hammielynne Maiava (12), varsity captain of Kearns Volleyball, stated.

EACH player has something that motivates them—a drive that pushes them through every game and practice.

“I found it very easy to just play without feeling pressured to perform well. It was just something to play and not worry about everything going on in my life,” Lia Benson (11) expressed.

ON the court, players are often known by their jersey numbers, each with its own story.

“I wear 29 because in the Bible it says it’s a number to indicate a bridge between endings and new beginnings,” Lia Benson (11) revealed.

“I chose number 9 because it was my aunt’s number back in high school,” Lyric Savage (10) said.

ALTHOUGH these numbers may seem simple, each one can hold deep personal meaning for a player. As these athletes show, even a number can be a source of motivation and pride.

THESE details motivate players every day and help them grow on and off the court. When motivation is low, remembering their reasons for playing reminds them of their love for the game.