Hannah Dar '22 Recruiting Profile

Over the years, my volleyball game has improved along with my mental game. When I started playing club volleyball at 14, I was only a middle blocker.  When my high school coach asked me to move to outside hitter, I was a bit apprehensive. I knew it would be challenging at first, but I was willing to leave my comfort zone for the sake of my team. Extra fitness and training made it possible for me to rise up to the challenge. Teamwork means connecting and showing up for my teammates. I put in extra time after practice, completing more and more hitting repetitions.  I also put in extra time working on passing and digging skills.  Over time my overall skills improved. I can now comfortably play outside hitter as well as middle blocker.   My versatility makes me an asset for my team. I am willing to learn and work hard to play wherever I am needed. 

Volleyball has not only supported my physical growth, but my mental confidence as well. When I first started playing volleyball, I was timid and afraid to make mistakes. I would put a lot of pressure on myself and I was my own harshest critic.   As I spent more time playing in tournaments,  I learned that this attitude made it difficult for me to do my best.   I learned that sports are about taking risks and pushing oneself outside of our comfort zone, which takes confidence and resilience.  The more I played, the more confident I became.  Although it has been a challenge to build my mental strength, I have made great strides. Volleyball will always be a big part of my life. When I play, I feel like I am home. Volleyball makes me a stronger person, one that can take on any obstacle that comes my way.  Each day, I fall in love with volleyball again and discover something new about the sport. In athletics and academics, I will always strive to be the best that I can be.