Darnell Chen '26 Recruiting Profile

In a volleyball team, there is no room for greed, there is no room for spotlights, there is no room for a hero. This is what I believe is the key foundation in a solid team, not just for volleyball. I'm Darnell Chen and my dream is to play for a national team like the ones I watch on television. This may seem like a huge leap from where I stand right now, but I believe I can do anything if I'm willing to make that sacrifice. I have played volleyball for about a year now and I can proudly say that I have worked really hard over this year. I have attended school seasons and also joined a club after the high school season ended. I have also participated in beach and grass volleyball. I am really coachable and willing to take advice from coaches and even my own teammates. During my sophomore year, my coach nominated me as the captain of our varsity team. Even though I knew it wasn't going to be easy, I still took the challenge and started leading the team. We had an athletic leadership council which had two representatives from each sport to discuss how we can become a better example and leader to our teammates on all levels. This was a huge part of the whole thing because I understood how it was hard giving guidance to people that were older than me and had more experience. I am still trying my best, but I believe I will get better through commitment, repetition and guidance.