Hailey Runowski '16 Recruiting Profile

Hello thank you for taking the time to read my profile. 

I have been in love with volleyball since I was in middle school.  Season after season, not only has my skills progressed, but my passion and devotion to the sport as well.  Devastatingly, December 2014, I tore my ACL during practice.  Despite my injury I was determined to get another prospective on the game, and continued to go to every practice and tournament with my team.  While sitting on the sidelines I realized how much I love the game and was desperate to continue playing at the next level.  I have never worked harder to rehabilitate myself with the help of physical therapy, strength and conditioning, and private volleyball sessions to make sure I stayed in the best possible shape and would be ready for my upcoming season. 

My parents have always encouraged me to play sports, not only because they are a great source of physical activity, but also because they offer discipline, balance, time management and team work.  These skills are all assets that will help me throughout my life.   These skills played a huge role for me this past fall while on a missions trip to an orphanage in Cambodia.  While there, I was responsible for teaching English, daily scheduling and helping to cook and clean.  I even got a chance to teach the girls volleyball and left my own ball there in the hopes that they would continue to play.  While there, I realized how extremely thankful I am for all that I am blessed with.  After seeing others in less privileged situations, I realize the abundance of what I have in my life.  From my parents who love me and support me, not only emotionally, but also by paying for equipment, hotel expenses at away tournaments, club volleyball and tutors.  I am very grateful for everything my parents have provided me with to play the game that I love.  This includes my marketing internship in California with Quest Nutrition to help push me along the career path I am passionate about.   Therefore, I will strive to work hard for a career choice that I genuinely enjoy rather than settle for a job that does not support my passions.  My goals are to play the sport I love while furthering my education. I know that by continuing to play volleyball in college it will remain beneficial to my academics, overall health, as well as, to help me continue in the direction of my future in accomplishing my dreams.

Throughout the years I have had a wide array of coaches from which I have gained different approaches and techniques involving the fundamentals of the game. Their expertise and guidance have helped shape me into the player I am today.  I hope by playing in college and being mentored by new coaches I will expand my athletic and academic skill sets.