Hailey Gripka '23 Recruiting Profile

Sports  plays a huge part in my life. They continue to teach me many valuable life  lessons. For example: Being on time, getting along with other kids, and following through with commitments.  Not only has sports taught me life lessons but qualities I never knew I had. I am very determined to do my best every play, I'm VERY competitive, and I am very composed under pressure. I love learning new skills and perfecting the skills I already have. Going to the gym and practicing hitting or blocking is my favorite way to practice those skills.  Softball has also been a big part of my life. I have been playing since I was four. I play for my high school team and travel team. Volleyball (indoor and beach), however, is my favorite sport.

I started having  an interest in volleyball when I was in second grade. My  two older sisters played on a club team.  Watching them play always made me jealous because I wanted to join them. Third grade I was able to join my school's 3-4 grade team. It was so fun.  I have been playing ever since.  When I got to high school, I was able to make the varsity team as a MB. This year I earned my spot on the court again.   By my senior year, I would like to win Districts and play in the State Tournament. 

My first year playing club was the 2019-2020. I played for Club MVP 16-2. During that time, I was asked to join the 17-1's at power league. This was a great opportunity to enhance my skills and play  at a very high skill level. During the 2021-2022 club season, I am playing for the Thr33 17 national team.

I started playing sand last summer (2021).  I have learned so much, very quickly.  I have been able to continue to play this winter in an indoor sand volleyball facility. I enjoy the strategy of the game, the multitude of touches, and the physical demand of playing in pairs. 

I am currently ranked number 1 in my high school class. I have a 4.1 GPA. I would like to be Valedictorian. I have a goal to get a 30 on  the ACT. 

Academics are my top priority in college. I want to be able to achieve a 4.0 GPA . I want to be successful on and off the court. I want to major in Biology and/or Business. 

What makes me different is that I'm goal oriented. If I set a goal, I will work hard until I achieve it. I am very organized and attention to detail is important to me.