Kayla Johnson '22 Recruiting Profile

        I remember before beginning high school being excited about the various sports I would pursue. I had always played a large variety of sports and was excited about the plethora of options my school provided. I tried out for volleyball in the eighth grade on a whim. I never imagined I would make the team, but I surprisingly did. After my first year of volleyball I knew that there were no other sports for me. The fall following my freshman season I decided to try out for my local travel team and unfortunately did not make it. That experience was disheartening, but looking back was essential to my growth. I talked to my parents about my disappointment and we began making a plan. I worked hard in all aspects of my game. 

       The following year, I tried out for my school's team and made Varsity as a sophomore. I excelled and grew great lengths. That season more than any other showed me truly how to be a leader. Even though I was one of the younger players on the team I became an essential part of my team's atmosphere and energy. I decided then to try out for travel once more. I made my clubs 3’s team and grew from a player in the background to a leader on the court. 

      Due to the pandemic, my travel 2020-2021 season came quicker than expected. I knew if I wanted to advance I had to grow even more. The summer of 2020 became a season of hard work. I spent most of my time in the gym, on the track, or in my backyard volleying. I saw the pandemic as less of a setback and more of a set up to advance and grow in my sport. After tryouts this year, I made my clubs 2’s team. If I have learned anything from this journey, it's that hard work indeed pays off and is the key to unlocking any doors imaginable. Volleyball has become an essential part in my life. I love the sport and everything that comes with it. To play volleyball for four more years would be amazing and is yet another dream I am prepared to chase and work for.

       From a young age I always thought I wanted to be a teacher. I loved working with kids and found a great passion for it. This summer of workouts changed my whole entire perspective. I fell in love with hard work. I would rather work for my goals than anything in the world. I realized that I want to help other athletes chase their dreams. I plan to go to college to get my bachelors degree in athletic training, exercise science, or kinesiology. I then plan to get my certification in personal training where I will eventually open a gym for young athletes to grow, develop, and chase their dreams.