Leya Parker '20 Recruiting Profile

Hi, my name is Leya Parker and I am a Senior at Bellflower High School.  I am currently holding a 3.3 GPA and ranked 67 out of 425 in my class.  I have been playing Volleyball in high school and club since Freshmen year.  What made me want to play Volleyball?  It is the sport's excitement, fast action, and competitiveness during the game.  The first time I played, was in the 4th grade at Southland Christian School.  Then it was fun and of course, not fast.  I developed a love for the sport then and did not share this with anyone.  I wanted to learn more and become the best player just like the ladies that represent the USA and competed in the 2012 Olympics in London.  I wanted to continue to play but being heavily involved in competition cheerleading and bowling, there was no time.   Finally, my opportunity came in the spring of the 8th grade.  I tried out, gave it my all and left it all on the floor.  To my surprise, I made the Frosh/Soph team and a few months later was named Captain.  I continued to develop my skills by listening to my coaches, watching videos and working out.

When I graduate from high school, I want to major in Law and be a Lawyer or Detective.  I chose this field as I want to help those that can not help themselves and feel they have no other option.  I am currently a teen volunteer at the County of Los Angeles, Don Knabe Community Regional Park.  This is my 3rd year volunteering with them.  I started attending their Summer program when I was 7 years old.  I love how the teens helped the kids with homework and life challenges.  I couldn't wait till I turned 13 and become someone's mentor.

My current goal is to finish high school and improve my volleyball skills so I can play in college.  My mom always said, "If it is meant to be, it will be."  I am glad that life gave me a second opportunity to play a sport that I love.