Matthew Degnan '20 Recruiting Profile

    At a setting camp entering my freshman year, the head coach taught that the essential quality of a setter is not only setting ability, but leadership. Over the next year, I questioned (and continue to question) how I can be the most effective leader. I now have a basic understanding that the best leader leads by example. This understanding drives me to be the best I can be. Bettering myself gives my team an example to follow. Being captain of most of my high school and club teams, I have matured so that my teams could too.

    I recently enjoyed coaching summer youth volleyball camps. It showed me not only how to teach players directly, but also the simple communication skills required for encouraging development. These skills prove themselves vital in leading and setting expectations for my teams.

    I truly began to love volleyball for its attention to detail and reward for hard work: MVP, All-Conference, and the Redwing Pride Award. I have —and will continue— to grow technically as a player, and, more importantly, as a leader throughout my life.