Marrisa Wonders '16 Recruiting Profile

When I was two years old my mother noticed I had grouped all my colored pencils in descending height according to color shades. This was her first inkling that I might enjoy interior design. As a homeschooled student through 11^th grade, I was free to travel to different job sites watching and sometimes assisting my mom as rooms were transformed from bland to fantastic.

My love for design has increased as I made the transition to my local high school for my senior year. I have enjoyed taking classes which have enabled me to grow and learn more specific applications for this passion.   I am continually striving to improve my 3.7 (unweighted) GPA by taking AP and College courses. 

Organization and the need to think outside the box are skills that have transferred well onto the volleyball court. As a player I love to compete and am always pushing myself to be the best I can be. My team relies on my strong leadership skills as I remain calm and level headed under pressure. I love running a quick offense; keeping the game flowing at a good speed.  Having played numerous doubles tournaments has made me a well rounded player.  I enjoy finding ways to make my teammates successful both on and off the court and my jump serve often wins points as evidenced by my stats shown on MaxPreps.com (28th in the nation for aces accumulated).  I have a strong swing as well which has allowed me to play opposite at HP Nationals every year.

My father has been dealing with serious heart issues since before I was born. This has put a strain on household finances but has taught me to work hard for what I want to accomplish. In addition to my bakery job which pays for my car insurance, I have taken on extra work helping to organize others, weeding, cleaning and various other tasks. This has enabled me to help pay for club volleyball over the years.

I volunteer at volleyball clinics in the summer and winter where I enjoy helping jr. high players develop their volleyball skills. I have received the presidential service award for the past 6 years volunteering over 50 hours of community service at a local establishment aimed at providing humanitarian aid around the world.

Biking, reading, writing, singing, acting, fishing and volunteering at my church are just a few of the activities I enjoy off the court. Having played soccer and softball for a number of years, I began passing volleyball with my mom when I was ten. I was hooked, and by age 14 I decided to focus solely on volleyball.

I am looking for a college that will help me develop my full potential as an athlete as well as strengthen my character and independence to enable me to become an even stronger leader. I welcome the challenge that collegiate volleyball presents and truly thrive under pressure. Above all, my aim is to glorify God both on and off the court.