Anna Lynch '18 Recruiting Profile

    I became interested in volleyball in elementary school, during gym class. I remember learning how to set with “Hershey Kiss hands” and the basics of an underhand serve. In seventh grade, I decided to try out for my middle/high school’s JV team. I’ve been a libero for four years now, since eighth grade. I love the position, but not only the aspects of getting an amazing dig or diving for a pancake. One of my favorite parts about being in the back row is leading the defense, reading and knowing what the other team is about to do next. I’ve always been a quieter person, but as soon as I put my jersey on everyone can hear me, calling every hit, every set, and every play. Over the years, especially playing at the open level of club volleyball, I’ve developed a mantra for myself. “Nothing hits the floor”. Now, this is the ultimate goal of a defensive player, and is one of the most important parts of the game. Telling myself this over and over again has brought me to stay on my toes, and focus on the task at hand, reading the game. Getting my 500^th career dig this past varsity season has helped me see my progress in my defensive skills.

            Outside of volleyball, I also play softball at the varsity level. I’ve been playing since I was young, at both the high school and travel levels. As a pitcher, I’ve learned at a very young age that I can control the game with not only a variety of pitches but also by my presence in the circle. My pitching coach taught me that if I look confident and (slightly) intimidating, I will become successful in the next pitch I throw. I’ve brought this back to the gym. If confidence and a positive attitude is brought onto the court, then nothing will hit the floor.

    I want to become a better leader on and off the court, and I hope that playing volleyball at a collegiate level will help me do that. Team chemistry is a necessary aspect of any team, but volleyball in particular. From my position as a captain for two seasons now (in both volleyball and softball), I’ve learned to help everyone feel included, with support on the court, outside-of-the-gym activities, and more.  Throughout my time playing sports, I’ve learned that there is a family aspect to a team. In both sports, whether it’s my high school volleyball team or my house league softball team, my teammates have become my sisters. In the few months that we have for our season, we develop more than our athletic skills. The bonds that we share follow us through the hallways at school, reconnecting on social media, and eventually throughout our lives.  I’m excited to become part of another volleyball family soon.