Caitlyn Russell '23 Recruiting Profile

I first fell in love with the game of volleyball in 6th grade, when I helped out as a manager for my middle school team. From that point on, I knew that volleyball was in my future. During my volleyball career, I have had consistent coaching, constructive criticism, and meaningful relationships that have helped me develop the skills needed to excel on the court and the desire to continue playing the game that I love at the next level. 

Throughout my high school career, I had the opportunity to play on several Varsity teams: basketball, volleyball, track, and soccer. Playing both volleyball and basketball in back-to-back seasons,  two sports that have  similar skill sets, has helped me stay in shape and also fine-tune my body to allow me to be a competitive player in both sports. Our school Varsity teams moved from a competitive 3A league to an even more competitive 4A league my Junior year, and I have enjoyed the challenge that playing at the Varsity level in competitive conferences has provided. During my Sophomore year, our volleyball team won the Conference and I was named All-Conference in Volleyball. That year, I also earned All-Conference in Basketball. After moving to our new 4A conference, I was named All-Conference Honorable Mention in Volleyball with 220 Kills, 16 Blocks, 277 Digs, and 50 Aces, as well as All-Conference in Basketball with 194 points, 185 rebounds, 37 assists, and 39 steals. Although I have been able to represent our Southern Alamance Patriots on several teams, my true love is volleyball.

Club ball has also been an important part of my volleyball life since 2018. I currently play for Fusion 336 Volleyball Club for the Fusion 18 Elite team. This team has been able to experience a great amount of success, winning 1st place in 4 out of our 6 tournaments this year so far, and coming in 2nd in two tournaments. I enjoy the competitive aspect, the team bonding, and the travel that club volleyball provides.

Along with enjoying a challenge on the court, I also enjoy challenges in the classroom. I have maintained an A average in all classes taken during my high school career, even while playing 4 sports at the Varsity level. The classes that most appeal to me are those that are hands-on and offer practical application. I look forward to finding a college that fits my needs and to which I can make a contribution both athletically and academically.