Landee Clifton '22 Recruiting Profile

    My volleyball life began in the fifth grade when two coaches, coach Tia and Claudine, came along and made a huge impact on my life. They taught me the love of the game and inspired me to continue playing and made me want to be the best that I could be.  Through the following years of volleyball, I was blessed in many ways by the sport and learned many things about myself.  I learned to apply two basic words that I was taught growing up - effort and attitude. Through volleyball, the significance and value of these words became evident.  Volleyball helped me build confidence and develop important problem-solving skills. When I play volleyball,  everything else in my life fades into the background. Overall, volleyball has made me happy even when other things may not be going so well. The sport has proven to me that I can overcome more than I believe I can.

    Growing up, I learned that the obstacles I encounter can be turned into valuable life lessons. This has shaped me as a person and continues to do so today. Traveling to compete in AAU Nationals showed me that no matter the opponent, at the end of the day, effort and attitude will prevail. These two simple words have such great impact. By making these words prevalent when I practice and play, I have proven to myself and others that anything you put your mind to can be achieved.   Although volleyball is on the top of my list, school and studying (specifically English and writing) is another important area of focus for me.  Writing is a way for me to express myself with words when I can't express them on the court.  At the end of the day, both writing and volleyball make my heart happy.