Phoebe Billingslea '24 Recruiting Profile

Volleyball has always been a significant part of my life since I started playing at the age of 7 in Mexico.  When I was 12 we moved to Bangladesh, at our school there was not a strong volleyball program, so I found myself coaching and captaining the varsity team as early as 7th grade. This experience not only strengthened my understanding of the game but also allowed me to develop leadership skills. Furthermore, by helping coach younger teams and sometimes my own, these leadership skills evolved and matured. When we moved to Singapore I continued to help coach younger players. I discovered that I enjoyed helping others by teaching them and it also strengthened my own appreciation and passion for the sport. This commitment to coaching and continuing playing instilled a stronger sense of responsibility and further developed my leadership skills. 

The COVID-19 pandemic posed challenges with being only able to train in groups of 2 then 5 but I continued to train as much as possible, and it developed my resilience and determination. Once regulations opened I continued to cultivate these skills and habits and stepped into a whole new level of volleyball that continues to challenge me, and help me grow as a player.  

As a hardworking, dedicated player I make it a practice to reflect on my strengths and weaknesses after games and training sessions, that way I am constantly improving.  My enthusiasm, positive attitude and self-motivation personally are some of my greatest tributes and will have an impact on the team. Even when I am not playing I will be there for my team cheering loudly, supporting them on and off the court, pushing my teammates to be their best. I am open minded, always looking for feedback and finding areas for improvement to become a stronger player.

 I have played multiple positions, starting as a setter when I first started playing, but when moving to Bangladesh where I was one of the taller players moving to an outside position. However, I am comfortable playing defense and I love to attack as well. As captain of both my club and school team for the past 2 years I’ve learned to be a leader, a good teammate, preserverent and motivate others, which is something I would like to continue to develop in college. And I am excited to see where I end up. 

On top of being a hardworking athlete, I also am a strong academic student. Taking the IB has challenged me through the intensity of the course and has allowed me to explore multiple areas of interest. Outside my studies I’ve been an avid member of the theater community that’s been a significant part of my life, shaping the person I am today. It has taught me how to work collaboratively on projects while also teaching me how to be independent and productive. Through working in different parts of the theater I’ve discovered the importance of having a variety of skills, helping others as well as being a fast learner. Being co-president of the theater club taught me leadership, responsibility as well as the importance of being positive, kind and accepting.  I am committed to not only excelling in my academic pursuits but also becoming a more skilled and well-rounded volleyball player.