Born a leader, Paige Vode (10) has had a love for volleyball, and the idea of leading her own team. With volleyball being a part of her life since she was a little girl, she was mainly drawn in by the team aspect of the sport.

“I started volleyball in kindergarten,” Vode said. “It interested me because it’s a team sport.”

Although Vode has been playing since she was young, this is her second year on the high school’s JV team. Her friendships have had a great impact on her experiences with her team.

“My favorite part [of playing volleyball] has been the tournaments and how we are all together and always having fun,” Vode said.

Because of her affinity and determination connected to the sport Vode has been able to accomplish many great things through her skills she has learned. Specifically, Vode has learned leadership skills from her role as the team’s captain.

“My greatest accomplishment while being on the team has definitely been being the captain of the team,” Vode said. “It has really helped me grow my leadership skills.”

Another skill Vode gained while being a part of the team has been braiding her teammates’ hair for their games, which is something she looks forward to every game. 

‘I love doing people’s hair and making them feel good about how they look,” Vode said.

Overall, the accomplishments Vode has made such as leading a team, have come from various challenges. Her grit and determination have allowed her to move past those obstacles and have made her learn useful lessons that she applies on the court.