Mariana Clayton '24 Recruiting Profile

Since I started playing volleyball at age 7, it has been a huge passion for me.  Through playing with different clubs, playing up different levels compared to my age, and being exposed to many different coaching styles, I feel that I am very adaptable to almost any situation.  I feel that I am different from a lot of other athletes in that I have been homeschooled, and coached by my mom for a lot of my playing career. She has made sure that I am first and foremost a team player, and then a quality player second.  But, she has pushed me harder than most coaches push their athletes because she wanted me to see my potential, and be able to play at another level.  Being a  Team Captain on many of my teams has helped me to become a better player and leader because I always have to think of my teammates first.  So far as character, my mom has instilled in my brother and I a hard work ethic,  caring for others, and the ability to laugh through difficult situations.   Academically, I have had to overcome challenges as someone with Dyslexia, but finding my way through navigating those challenges has made me a stronger person.  

I want to play volleyball in college.  My whole life has been about volleyball, and so pursuing it the next level is the next step in following my passion.