Riley Cudnik '21 Recruiting Profile

There is a thrill like no other when the roar of the crowd sounds after a huge kill!  When my teammates scream and embrace me after a huge block.  These experiences are what motivate me and have encouraged me to pursue playing collegiate volleyball.  Since I was young, I have enjoyed playing various sports.  Some I liked and others only for one season.  In 7^th grade, I started playing school volleyball and basketball.   I found both sports exciting.  After my 8^th grade seasons,  I decided I wanted to play club volleyball and made an American team.  The following year, I made a National team and have played at that level since.  As I entered high school, I made the varsity team as a freshman for both basketball and volleyball and was introduced to the importance of team work and support both on and off the court.  Being a dual sport athlete in high school, I have had to be disciplined and practice strong work ethic to balance not only my athletics, but also my academics.

I grew up in a home with both parents who have supported me and encouraged me to try new things, work hard in whatever I pursue and to never quit.  They have challenged me to always give 100% and be thankful for all the blessings I have.  They have taught me to love God, family and friends and treat others with the same respect that I want to be treated with.  These traits have influenced who I am and are what help me to be a great teammate and friend.  These characteristics have also helped me perform well in my academics and maintain a 4.0 GPA, while also volunteering at my church and in local community service projects. 

As I begin thinking about college and the next chapter of my life, I am excited by the possibility of playing volleyball at the next level.  I would like to pursue a career in physical therapy or medicine, which I know will be hard work.  The skills that I have learned thus far by playing volleyball while in school will be the same skills that will help me be successful in college.