Ellie Carlson '23 Recruiting Profile

My name is Ellie Carlson. The people who have been the biggest influence in my life are my parents and family. They continue to show me to always have a positive attitude, a good work ethic, and how to be a leader. When I was younger I tried all sorts of sports such as soccer and basketball but I didn’t have the drive and passion for them. However, when I watched my cousin play volleyball in middle school I immediately became interested. In fourth grade I tried out for my first club team and one of the coaches pulled my Dad aside and told him that I was “too small”. These words had a huge impact on me that day and continue to do so today because they put fire inside of me to show everyone that I can do anything I set my mind to no matter my size. I have learned that teamwork, passion, hard work, leadership and commitment can take you very far in volleyball and also in life. I finished up my Sophomore year starting on the 4A Idaho State Championship Team. I earned the Defensive Player of the Year as well. Junior year I was named the Idaho 4A IEL Defensive Player of the Year, I was also nominated and now a finalist for the North Idaho Volleyball Player of the Year at the Annual North Idaho Athletic Hall of Fame High School Awards Banquet, and selected to the 2022 Inland Northwest Volleyball Showcase. Only a select group of All-League players throughout the Inland Northwest are being invited to this prestigious event. I am currently undecided on my major but I want to keep my options open and learn more about what interests me.   I would like to end with my favorite quote, “Hard work beats talent when talent doesn’t work hard.” - Kevin Durant