Nina Westerlind '22 Recruiting Profile

My name is Nina Westerlind and I am a 5’8” RS for the class of 2022. My dream is to one day play collegiate-level volleyball while obtaining my degree in Nursing. I currently attend West Islip Senior High School in West Islip, NY. WI High School is an International Baccalaureate school, and was recently named a National Blue Ribbon School by the Department of Education. 

Growing up in a town revolved around pride and passion for sports and academic achievement, I learned from an early age the importance of being a well-rounded team player. Playing three sports for most of my life showed me the significance of leadership and being a part of a team. It wasn't until 7th grade when I had discovered my passion for volleyball. My love for the sport stemmed from the idea that I could count on my teammates and my coach to always have my back and push me to my full potential. The rush I get from leaving a gym or convention center knowing that I played my hardest, and had my team by my side the entire time is like no other. Club and school volleyball gave me a sense of family and friendship on and off the court and it truly allows me the confidence I need to grow as an athlete to perform to the best of my ability.

Compassion, determination and strive are qualities every team leader and role model should have.  When it comes to volleyball, my two biggest role models are my middle school coach, and Mental Health Advocate and former USC Division I Volleyball Player, Victoria Garrick. Both Garrick and my coach taught me that it's okay to have bad days, and that they only make you stronger. Whether it be athletically or academically, they showed me the importance of always being there for your team when times get hard, because at the end of the day, they are the ones who have your back. Being looked up to by younger players and other teammates makes me hope that one day I will be able to make an impact to younger players the way Garrick and my coach did on me. I learned how to motivate, advise and be there for my team in the face of adversity and while overcoming obstacles. I hope to one day take my leadership and drive to the next level and play volleyball in college.