Veda Chadalavada '24 Recruiting Profile

I started playing volleyball in elementary school because my dad played volleyball when he was younger. When I began playing, I immediately knew that this sport would be something I want to pursue. I began by playing a beginner's program, but transitioned to playing travel volleyball when I was 12 years old. I was trying out for a city league team, but was chosen by another coach to be placed on her travel team as she believed I would benefit from this higher level of volleyball. That season was the season I realized how much I love the competitive atmosphere. Ever since then, I have worked harder and harder to achieve my goals and be placed on a team more competitive than my last team. 

This sport has taught me many things about myself and shaped me as a whole. It has taught me how to overcome losses, effectively communicate and work with others, leadership, and most of all, how to learn from my mistakes. As a libero/DS, learning from mistakes is a key skill to have. Playing defense is my favorite thing to do. There is nothing like the feeling of getting a great dig and stopping the other team from getting a kill. I also love getting excited for my teammates when they get an amazing play. I am a very coachable, hardworking, and motivated athlete. 

Playing collegiate volleyball is not only a goal, but has been a dream of mine since I began playing. Over the course of me playing, volleyball has become everything to me, and it has become a part of who I am. The competitiveness, the friendships, the excitement, and the way that coaches become like mentors, volleyball is a huge part of my life. I would not be who I am today without the knowledge and skills I have learned from volleyball. I hope to be able to attend a college that allows me to succeed academically while also playing the sport I love.