9INE POINT MAG ISSUE 5: The Athlete's Journey of Self Discovery

ATHLETE DRIVEN MAGAZINE.

CHAPTER VOLLEYBALL

Malina Terrell

“The Quiet Storm” Leading International Volleyball Scorer and Outside Hitter

The Athlete’s Journey of Self-Discovery

Lori Okimura Paving The Way For Women in Sports

by Chelsea Roemer

New Episode of The Started With A Dream Podcast Special feature from Team Canada Sitting Volleyball Athlete Katelyn Wright

TABLE OF CONTENTS 3 ORGINS OF 9INE POINT 5 LETTER FROM THE PUBLISHER 6 MALINA TERRELL: THE QUIET STORM 13 N E W P O D C A S T E P I S O D E 14 L O R I O K I M U R A : P A V I N G T H E P A T H F O R W O M E N I N S P O R T S 19 A , B , C ' S O F W O R K I N G I N S P O R T S 20 C O A C H E S ' C O R N E R : T A M A R I M I Y A S H I R O 24 T H E J O U R N E Y O F M A L I N A T E R R E L L 26 A T H L E T E D A I R Y 28 K A T E L Y N W R I G H T - M Y J O U R N E Y A S A P A R A S P O R T A T H L E T E 32 A T H L E T E S P O T L I G H T : R I C H A R D S O N H I G H S C H O O L S E N I OR S 47 C R E D I T S

Origins of Every story has a beginning. If you are reading this magazine, there is a chance that this is your first time interacting with the 9INE POINT brand.

A question we are often asked is where did the name 9INE POINT come from? It came from the manifestation of three track and field sprinters. They were a team built of two Canadian Olympians and a walk-on from Richardson, Texas.

These three set out on a mission to create a marketing agency that set the standard of greatness for sports marketing and storytelling. A top standard in the world of the 100-meter dash is clocked at 9 seconds and some milliseconds (9.##). With the goal to mirror this form of exclusivity in top level marketing, a marketing agency by the name of “9INE POINT” was born in the summer of 2016.

While the team had success, they realized that each member had passions and dreams in which outgrew the agency. One of the founders left for art school to pursue his dream as a painter, and another left to focus on building an app to help injured athletes.

There was one founder left, the storyteller Jacolby Gilliam. Driven by his own athletic journey, he thought to expand the business from an agency into a sports media company: An uplifting media company that additionally cares for the athlete as a person, even beyond what they do in their sport.

Jacolby wanted to create a platform for athletes to know that no matter the good or the bad that may come on their athletic journey, they are not alone. He wanted a platform where athletes could share their stories and be inspired by each other. A platform for the underdogs chasing their dreams. A platform where it didn’t matter the status whether it be D1, D2, D3, NAIA, All-American, 3rd string, professionally overseas or back in the States. Because at the end of the day, every athlete has a journey that can inspire another.

From that moment, in the summer of 2017, 9INE POINT Media was launched.

LETTER FROM THE PUBLISHER It all starts with a Dream. Do you remember your first time throwing a football? Did you announce your own baseball game in the backyard? Better yet did you find yourself saying 3..2..1 as you released the basketball for the game winning shot? You may have not known it then, but your very own athletic journey had already begun.

As we grow older, our journey matures from dreams to reality.

Before you know it, those muddy sneakers upgrade into football cleats, the inflatable beach ball turns into a volleyball, and pretty soon, your seven year old fantasy manifests into an opportunity.

That one opportunity is all you need.

Our team at 9INE POINT believes that you’re only an opportunity away from reaching your dreams. We want to be a part of every step in your journey. We are your biggest cheerleader when you make the team, a source of inspiration to help bounce back from an injury, and a safe space for you to know that whatever you are going through, you’re not alone.

As we enter a new season of 9INE POINT, we want you to know that this company only exists because of you. We are not only a team of athletes, current & former, but we are creators, artists, philanthropists. Most importantly, we are human; and so are you.

Our purpose at 9INE POINT is to be a positive, authentic, athlete-driven company to empower all athletes to achieve their version of greatness. We are on a mission to make sure that no athlete feels alone on their journey. Through engaging with our articles, interviews, resources, and more; you are just one opportunity away from reaching your dream.

9INE POINT was originally created upon the aspiration to spark a platform for current and next- generation athletes.

Join us on this journey as we start our new Dream Chaser’s Campaign where we offer free content featuring athletes like you, who are currently, or have already gone through similar processes. Our goal of sharing these stories is to inspire and grow our next generation’s dream chasers. Get ready to dive into this inspirational magazine issue featuring a dream chaser from The Bay, Malina Terrell.

W

We talk about how the line of chasing a goal in athletics may not always be a straight one. For a while, we strive to succeed in one category of our life. Yet, we just might have to put in some work to the other parts of our being to get there.

Terrell shares the raw realities of her athletic journey where she was met with profound moments of self-reflection and confronted with adversity in paving her own way. Through all the hurdles, the light of Malina Terrell shined bright. Leading her to a professional career with countless Top Scorer and Top Outside Hitter titles in respected leagues in Finland, Denmark, Germany, and France. She just finished her third season competing for one of the top teams in the league, participating in the highly renowned CEV European Cup. While these accolades have built a career of notoriety, the impactful opportunity of inspiring a younger generation through her personal story is what keeps Terrell motivated to push further towards her version of greatness.

Growing up in Richmond, California, Terrell spent her childhood living in the simple wonders of just being a kid —riding bikes, doing art, and playing house. When sports started to get introduced into her schedule, she took to volleyball and basketball quickly. It was basketball that initially grabbed her focus. A volleyball coach noticed her talent in a local tournament, quickly introducing Terrell to the world of club volleyball.

Club volleyball is an organization of travel teams that compete both within a region and across the country. Since the travel league is quite competitive, club volley is where most recruiting takes place and often guides athletes further into college opportunities.

MALINA TERRELL

The Quiet Storm

Written by Lindsay Dowd

WE HAD THE HONOR OF SITTING DOWN WITH INTERNATIONAL PROFESSIONAL VOLLEYBALL PLAYER MALINA TERRELL TO DISCUSS HER UNIQUE JOURNEY TO BECOMING ONE OF THE TOP EUROPEAN PROFESSIONAL VOLLEYBALL CIRCUIT ATHLETES.

College opportunities arose for Terrell quickly.

Her first letter came from an interested school at the early age of 14. Having only been in the 8th grade, the great magnitude of the recruiting process was new to Terrell. “(Looking back on the) exposure to the recruiting process, I would have done some things differently if I had more of a guide to help.”

Even with navigating the recruiting process on her own, her ingenuity shined through as she accepted a full scholarship to a notable Division 1 program in the West Coast Conference at the University of San Francisco.

Coming out of Division 1 Collegiate Volleyball, Terrell had her sights set on something more: a career in professional volleyball overseas.

Knowing that previous players had used agencies to get there, she decided to reach out to volleyball agent Ryan Jay Owens with

EliteVolley Agency for possible representation.

While the signing with an agent itself was one step closer to her dream, Malina felt that the process would be anything but smooth.

As Terrell was viewed as an “unconventional volleyball player,” she had some hesitations going into the process of selecting an agent, let alone a team.

On paper, Terrell was technically considered a Middle Blocker, but in reality, she was far more capable and could hit out of all three positions on the court. At USF, her time consisted of three rotations in the front row, separately hitting on the outside, and the middle, and from the

opposite. Something quite unique for a volleyball player. Her mom used to call her the “Quiet Storm” as she was the player quietly and efficiently taking care of business at the net but would then just bang a ball straight down in a rally. So even with the unconventional game tape, nothing would stop Malina Terrell from achieving her dream.

So she put in the work, starting with a wholehearted, long e-mail to agent Owens, expressing her determination in reaching this next step in her career.

challenges and push-backs of living overseas internally.

“It ain’t all peaches and cream out there… It gets lonely…I had a few emotional breakdowns because things get hard, stuff just hits you, and you don’t always know how to deal with it.”

“I wrote, listen, I know I’m not an All American, I’m not with USA Volleyball… but I wanna work for this… I poured out everything I had in that e-mail to hopefully convince him to give me a shot and try and push me to get me on a team in Europe.”

Recognizing her passion and resilience, EliteVolley took on The Quiet Storm and landed her first professional contract in Denmark.

Understanding the investment of her goals.

Ryan explained that she was not going for the money or the level, but more for the opportunity to get her foot in the door.

In Classic Terrell fashion, she took advantage of the opportunity and spent every moment possible to get into the Denmark gym and “rep out” her mechanics.

“I had a lot to learn about the game, still learning. I had a lot to learn about what I could do as a player, still learning about that!”

From then on, the career took off, landing her an immediate contract in Germany. Followed by a season in Puerto Rico. Two seasons in Finland, where she bagged the Top Scorer and Top Outside Hitter titles multiple times. Lastly, three successful seasons in France, leading the highly competitive conference in attacking and serving statistics.

While she looked to be hitting her goals on the outside, she was simultaneously met with

There is a stigma in the media that professional athletes only live a life of glitz and glamor, not realizing the vast difficulties of living alone, immersed in a different culture, in a foreign place where the pressures of the job and the world collide heavily.

“You question who you are sometimes… from self-confidence to love life, to being a citizen in this world… I’ve gone through so many things in the last seven years playing pro…things that you never wish on people, things that you think, dang I thought I’d never go through that.”

While working with her mental coach, Terrell dove into intense sessions of self-reflection.

One exercise, in particular, involved exploring The voyage of self. Symbolizing her inner composition, she used a ship filled with a crew of her inner selves:

Terrell realized that reaching her goal of becoming a successful professional volleyball player additionally meant doing some work internally. After working with a sports psychiatrist, she found a path to mastering her mind by staying in the moment and taking back the light in her spirit.

“In this crew, I have the Physically Able and Strong one, the Adventurous one, the Sensitive one, the Emotional one, the Funny one, the Fearless one, the Motivational one, the Ambitious one, the Giving one, the Insecure one, the Loving one, the Intense one, the Doubtful one, and then the Weak one: The Weakling.

“I’m all for help. Never put shame on getting help. Because there have been some people who can relate to you.”

She explained that as the ship captain, it is her duty to take care of everyone in the crew, even when the voyage of life brings its storms and rough waters. As they dove into each crew member, the Weakling one received the most form of in-depth work.

Trying to embrace the Weakling’s presence, Terrell realized that this member was just as important as the rest of the crew. Instead of trying to shut the insecure Weakling out, it showed to be more beneficial to identify when the negative talk decided to pop up because she was there for a reason, telling Terrell that she was going through something.

This process of confrontation worked to be a form of healing for Terrell.

people, your world, all of that.”

Terrell hopes to inspire the next generation of female athletes through her story of Choosing the light within the darkness. Coming from a background that doesn’t include a national team roster number. She always chose to find the light in a game where she started years later than teammates next to her and potentially fewer initial resources and struggles unknown to others threatening her spirit with darkness.

“Be honest with yourself and look at yourself in the mirror, and accept that things are not perfect, things don’t always look great, but there is always an opportunity to learn.”

“It’s up to you…You decide if you let what happens in your life dictate how you treat people, how you treat yourself, how you shape the world and how you look at life and the kind of person that you want to be.”

With the exercise proving to be a significant breakthrough for Terrell, she showed that the first step was to find herself in pursuing her athletic dream. By going back and facing past traumas, Terrell was able to accept them and move on, thus paving an open road of clarity.

“Coming from where I’m from and given my life experiences, I wanna be able to tell one young girl my story and tell her, Listen it doesn’t matter where you’re from, how you’re brought up…

This is what you can do; you can even go beyond this. it’s to be able to tell an incredible story, in whatever she wants to do.”

“It’s taking a step back to take a step forward…

Sometimes I have those (tough) moments, but it’s like how do I shrink that month down into a week. How do I shrink that week of toughness down into a day…

After finishing her season in France, Terrell decided to invest some time for herself spending a month in Greece where she allowed herself to get back to being happy and enjoying herself with the people around her. She is now training for her upcoming season for a top league team in Athens, Greece, with a clear and focused mind.

While her athletic journey began with a goal to become a successful volleyball player, she learned that the key to achieving this dream lay hidden in an ongoing journey of self-discovery. “(It’s about) The journey of learning more about who you are to the core: What your limits are, what you’re willing to do, what you’re willing to tolerate with yourself, other

Through her journey of introspection, she remains to be the light in people’s life.

ATHLETE VLOGS: ERIK SHOJI

Day in the Life of a USA Volleyball National Team Player Press play to catch up with USA Men’s Volleyball Libero Erik Shoji as he takes you along his day of preparation and training in the USA gym alongside USA teammates and coaches.

“Hey guys! Welcome to a day in the life of a USA Volleyball National Team Player! This is a little glimpse behind the scenes of USA Volleyball and what we do as USA Volleyball National Team Players

e h T g n i Pav Path T

he doors flew open as professionals and college students eagerly flooded into the auditorium seats. Once the audience fell silent, Lori Okimura took her place among the other panelists at the Global Sport Institute at Arizona State University. After she began to speak of her journey as a woman and minority in the sports industry, the audience broke the silence with a roar of gasps.

Lori Okimura is a highly decorated AsianAmerican woman who has earned a respectable career in multiple facets of the sports industry.

Her journey in the sports industry began as early as college, where she had an opportunity to work in the strategic communications department for her alma mater, the University of Southern California.

During her time at USC, more of her story began to unfold as she stumbled upon an opportunity to get involved with the Pro Beach Volleyball Tour. Her dedication, passion and love for the sport helped jumpstart what would be a long career off the court and behind the scenes.

“I wish I could say I mapped out my career in sports, but that was not the case at all,” Okimura said. “I believe my career started because I was in the right place at the right time and I had a mentor at USC that helped me take the next step.”

Since her time with Pro Beach Volleyball, she has expanded her knowledge of the sports industry by working in a variety of roles. Some of her jobs included; FIVB Technical Supervisor, Communications Director for Collegiate Women Sports Awards, Event Director of Honda Sports Awards and CEO and owner of Creative Sports Strategies.

Her most notable opportunity came when she was elected Chairman of the Board for USA Volleyball in May of 2014. Okimura became the second

o f y it n u t r o p p o n a e k a m n a c u Ask yourself how yo f t i y a p o t g n i o g e r a y e h t e p o h d n a someone else woman and first ever Asian-American to serve as chair.

She has extensive experience in sales, marketing and promotion of various major volleyball and beach volleyball organizations and events, including several USAV Junior National Qualifiers.

“Being able to help in a sport that I benefited from growing up was an amazing feeling,” Okimura said. “I was able to see the sport from a different perspective and clean up the areas of volleyball that needed attention.”

Lori, the Hawaii native, began to play organized volleyball at the age of eight. Growing up, others made it clear that she was going to endure discrimination in sports due to her economic status.

“Equal opportunity to play sports was not present where I grew up,” Okimura said. “Open gym would be boys only and it cost so much money that when I found an opportunity to play I would take advantage of it as much as I could.”

The discrimination did not stop once her time on the court came to an end as a young adult. The injustices continued as she made a name for herself in the volleyball world, but this time as a sports industry professional.

She was not only discriminated against for her race and gender, but her age as well. Recently, stories of women enduring similar obstacles on the job have begun to surface.

“I think every women can say they have had some sort of encounter with discrimination while on the job,” Okimura said. “It was not uncommon for me to be the only woman in a room full of men and have that out of place feeling while also being the youngest.”

In March of 2019, Okimura participated as a guest panelist for the organization inaugural event; Global Sport Matters. Lori was invited to speak with her peers regarding the topic of minorities and women working in sports. It was during this time that the audience led her to realize the discrimination she had faced was bigger than she thought.

She proceeded to describe accepting her new role as Chairman of USA Volleyball, where a derogatory comment referring to her race was made loudly by a colleague. Surrounded by others, Okimura remained composed and did not put any energy into the comment.

“The person who made that comment was known for commonly making rude jokes like that, so in the moment I felt that it was expected.” Okimura said.

It was as she concluded telling the story to the audience, that their reactions really struck her.

“Even several years later I never gave that moment a second thought until

or forward

AUTHOR

CHELSEA ROEMER Chelsea Roemer is a Dallas, Texas native who graduated from the University of Missouri School of Journalism in May of 2020. During her time in Missouri, she served as an strategic communications intern for the athletic department and was involved in the Missouri student chapter of the Association for Women in Sports Media (AWSM). Her senior year she was named to the 2020 AWSM Scholar class. Other previous experiences consist of working in summer wood bat collegiate leagues and writing for the University newspaper. She currently resides in Jacksonville, Florida, where she serves as a communications assistant in the Jacksonville University athletic department.

I was on the panel talking about it,” Okimura said. “The reaction from everyone in the room really caught me off guard, people were shaking their heads in disbelief.”

At this moment the severity of the comment suddenly hit Lori.

After concluding her time in Arizona, Okimura continued her fight for women and minorities in sports. The low number of minorities and women working in sports causes a lack of representation, leading to the halt in change around the world.

Today, she is now expanding her fight for athlete advocacy with her new role as International Technical Official for the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics Games.

Her method to those working in sports is simple; make opportunities for others and pay it forward.

“People in the industry need to commit themselves to being part of the change,” Okimura said. “You need to ask yourself how you can make an opportunity for someone else and hope they are going to pay it forward.”

Lori Okimura’s

s t r o p S n i g n i k r o W f o s ’ C , B , A ASK QUESTIONS

Volunteer and get more experience

BE PART OF THE CHANGE industry is always evolving

A

CREATE OPPORTUNITIES pay it forward

A: If you are interested in working for a particular company, first become a volunteer. As a volunteer, an individual has the opportunity to earn more hands-on experience, ask questions and gain an understanding of how the company operates before potentially applying. “ As a volunteer one can see how a company will treat the employees who are not working for them at a high level,” Okimura said. “It is also a good way to meet more people and break into the industry.”

B C

The sports industry is evolving each and everyday. Recently, the change has shifted toward the inclusion of women and minorities in sports, as organizations are diversifying their staffs and educating themselves to properly handle tough situations.

“You need to commit to being part of the revolution,” Okimura said. “For women right now the moment is starting to change, but it will be a while before it becomes the norm if people refuse to acknowledge it.”

Networking is said to be one of the biggest aspects of working in sports, as the industry creates opportunities for individuals to meet people from all across the globe.

These connections also have the power to help individuals earn an employment opportunity.

“There is not one person in sports who was not lent a hand to get into the industry,” Okimura said. “When working in sports you need to ask how you can create opportunities to help someone else and pay the gesture forward.”

COACHES’ CORNER TAMARI MIYASHIRO

Image: alchetron.com

“When it comes to coaching, I think I just try to remember that I am helping an athlete try to become the best version of themself.”

- Miyashiro

PERSPECTIVES from the coaches’ side of the court

A 2012 OLYMPIC SILVER MEDALIST, A SUCCESSFUL INTERNATIONAL CAREER, CONSISTENT PODIUM FINISHES WITH USA VOLLEYBALL, AND NOW AN OLYMPIC GOLD MEDALIST AS A COACH FROM THE TOKYO 2020 OLYMPICS. WE WERE ABLE TO CHAT WITH USA VOLLEYBALL ASSISTANT COACH, TAMARI MIYASHIRO FOR A CHANGE OF PERSPECTIVE TO THE COACHING SIDE OF THE GAME.

Work hard, get a

Image: Instavollley.com

WHAT WAS THE MAIN REASON

1) FOR YOU TO WANT TO BECOME A

COACH?

My inspiration came from my college staff. They taught me a lot at the University of Washington not only on how to become a better volleyball player, but a better person. I had an absolute blast playing for that staff.

WAS 2) WHAT IT LIKE INITIALLY

TRANSITIONING FROM PLAYER TO COACH? The transition from a player to coach definitely had its learning moments but I feel like I got really lucky. I had a lot of support from our head coach Karch and also from the girls.

They made it easy to coach them even though some of them were my teammates and closest friends. I think the one thing that helped me was that I dove into the deep end.

I dove right in and tried to learn everything possible. I always felt like I could give insights because I went through everything the players were going through: the highs and lows and everything in

between. All that stuff is normal once you look back, but when you’re in it you just think you’re treading water for a very long time. So I tried to use those experiences to help me be an advocate for them and to be a support system. Meanwhile I was taking an “intensive course” on coaching trying to catch up on many things.

Things like learning how to teach technique, how to run a drill, how to scout and be able to present it in a way that is helpful to the players.

It was a lot but I loved it.

I think one of the reasons why I loved it so much was because it was challenging.

ARE YOUR CORE 3) WHAT VALUES WHEN IT COMES

TO COACHING A TEAM?

When it comes to coaching, I think I just try to remember that I am helping an athlete try to become the best version of themself.

In terms of volleyball performance, I want them to feel like they can absolutely let it rip when they compete.

Whether it’s just a pit stop for some, or years spent together, I always try to make an impact where I can. When a player of mine improves, that gives me great joy.

WHAT DO YOU LOOK

4) FOR IN A PLAYER

WHEN FILLING YOUR ROSTER?

Image: Patrick Poentis - Pinterest

With the National Team, I think one thing that is

little better every day an

d let the rest take care of

Image: alchetron.com

often overlooked is that at our level, we are just trying to execute basic volleyball fundamentals at a high level… under stress. So when I am watching video of our players, or up- and- coming players, I look for their ability to execute basic skills again and again. Under normal conditions, and stressful conditions. We have this depth with Team USA that at times we are training against the best we’ll see, so to see how girls respond in our gym or playing in their pro leagues is a really good stress test. Of course my eye is drawn to passing and defense and how efficient a player is with their movements. That usually can tell me how good their eyework is, and that’s always fascinating to me because I think eyework is very under taught.

THE WORLD WATCHED AS USA

5) TOOK THE GOLD IN THE TOKYO 2020

itself

OLYMPICS. LOOKING BACK ON THE PROCESS OF GETTING TO WHERE YOU ARE TODAY, WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO YOU TO WIN A GOLD MEDAL IN THE OLYMPICS? The process to win gold in Tokyo started many years ago. However in this quad, I could write a book about it. Since we don’t have time for that. I will sum it up saying it took a collective effort. We went into Tokyo, 23 Strong. In reference to our depth in our program and how a group of strong women stayed together, worked extremely hard as individuals and as a team to make history…. and we did it! My belief is that we have inspired many to do the same.

ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO 6) WHAT ANY UP- AND- COMING PLAYER WITH

A BIG DREAM THEY WANT TO FULFILL? My advice is to take it little by little. When one thinks about the end too much, you can get in the way of yourself. Work hard, get a little better everyday and let the rest take care of itself… and remember we are just trying to execute basic skills over time under stress. So first, get really good at the basics then go test it.

The Journey of Malina 2005 Little League

2013 Senior Year college

2014 Denmark

2010 Senior Year of High School

2015 NaWaro Germany

2016 OrPo Finland

2018 Bexiers, France

2020 Bexiers, France

2017

2019

2021

Kuusamo Finand

Bexiers, France

Greece

ATHLETE VLOGS: KELSEY ROBINSON

USA Volleyball Training Day & What I Pack For Tournaments Press play to get an inside look into Outside Hitter Kelsey Robinson’s day of training in the USA Volleyball gym as she gears up for the six- week long Volleyball Nations League tournament in Rimini, Italy.

NEW EPISODE

The Start of A New Journey

I

I was born with a rare vascular and lymph condition called Klippel Trenaunay Syndrome in my right leg. Meaning there was poor circulation in my leg causing it to became very swollen. – Katelyn Wright Team Canada Women’s Sitting Volleyball Rio 2016 Paralympian Growing up I curled in the Winter, golfed in the Summer, and took horseback riding lessons all year round. Yet sports were tough for me because of how large and sensitive my leg was. Overall, I couldn’t run very well. The equipment for the more mainstream sports wouldn’t fit my leg and trying to get custom equipment made was virtually impossible.

Amputation When I was 12 my leg was infected with a Strep G Necrotizing Fasciitis that began attacking my immune system. It was severe, I went into septic shock and almost died. After multiple debridements and skin grafts couldn’t keep the infection at bay, the doctors told me my leg wasn’t going to get better.

So in March 2003 at the age of 13, I had my leg amputated above the knee. This was an exciting opportunity for me; having my leg amputated was going to allow me to be more active and participate in sports that I hadn’t been able to do or even try before. In spite of all the excitement, this moment was also terrifying because even though my leg wasn’t healthy, it was all I had known up until that point in my life. It was my normal.

Unfortunately, I still had problems with infections after my amputation and my leg was still very sensitive. Again, sports weren’t a realistic option for me, and that was tough, mainly because my family was very active. However, I continued to horseback ride, golf, and I curled standing up, using a stick.

In January of 2014, I had a surgical revision to remove a few more centimeters of bone after it was discovered that I had a bone infection. During my recovery, I received an email from a friend that I had re-connected with at a Sit Skiing clinic the previous winter asking me if I wanted to come and try Sitting Volleyball. I was nervous, I had only every played Volleyball in gym class (when I was healthy enough to participate), but I knew I was being given an opportunity to better myself.

An opportunity to act on a chance to play a new sport. It turned out to be the best thing that could have happened to me because it was my official introduction into the world of parasport.

My journey through parasport has been something that has challenged me physically and mentally. It has pushed me to better myself as an athlete but also as a human being.

When I started Sitting Volleyball, I was at the lowest level you could possibly begin at. I didn’t know the court positions, couldn’t serve a ball over the net, and my platform left a lot to be desired.

That was not going to stop me. I had the drive to learn, the determination to get better, and the vulnerability to allow myself to fail so I could grow.

I’m the strongest I’ve ever been, and I’ve become much more in tune with my body since becoming coming active in sitting volleyball.

Parasport has taught me a few things 1.

Helped me become more aware of where my strength’s and weaknesses.

2. That I’ve allowed my body to overcompensate for the loss of my leg.

3.

How to work out effectively and efficiently to re-train my body to use my residual limb effectively.

4. How to fuel my body for performance.

"It’s Gratifying To Be A Para-Athlete"

We can’t always control

the challenges themselv es, but we can choose how we choose to handle th em

,

On the court I’m always learning, I know that is something that will never stop. Sometimes, I finally think I’m getting the hang of something, and then my coach challenges me to add another element.

Making me feel like I’m right back at square one.

It’s frustrating, but it’s also an aspect of the sport that I love. That constant push to be better than I was yesterday.

It’s Gratifying To Be A Para-Athlete Personally, I think one of the greatest aspects of parasport is the inclusion and the community that comes with it. Many able-bodied sports are just not possible for people with physical limitations, but any able-bodied person is able to try parasport. Para-athletes love having the opportunity to share their sport.

It’s gratifying to be able to showcase how hard we work as athletes, to be able to educate athletes of all ages, able-bodied and adapted, that sport is possible for all people, regardless of physical limitations, and to inspire the next generation of para-athletes.

Then there are my teammates that have become my second family. It is refreshing to be with a group of people that understand you in ways most people can’t. That you can show your entire being to without being judged, or without having to explain yourself. We push each other every day to be the best versions of ourselves. I’ve also had the opportunity to travel across the globe to compete and represent Canada on the world stage as a

member of Women’s Sitting Volleyball Team, the highlight being the Rio 2016 Paralympics. I’ve met so many amazing athletes that have accomplished so much, and it’s truly humbling to see athletes with physical barriers far greater than mine doing what they love.

There Will Always Be Challenges If there’s one thing I’ve learned throughout my life, is that we are all going to be faced with challenges.

No matter if it is in everyday life or just in sport. We can’t always control the challenges themselves, but we can choose how we choose to handle them. Personally, I strive to face my challenges head-on. To look for the positives in them to see how I can learn and grow from them.

There have been many times where I’ve made the easy choice, the comfortable choice because I was scared. But you know what, four years ago I was scared to try Sitting Volleyball. I had become so comfortable in believing that my leg would never allow me to do anything beyond what I already knew. Although I wanted to believe it; I wasn’t sure if the bone revision was going to change it.

Four years ago, I made a choice to push myself outside of my comfort zone. I recognized that I was being given an opportunity I had never been given before and I couldn’t ignore it. Four years ago, I joined Team Canada Women’s Sitting Volleyball, and I haven’t looked back since.

ATHLETE

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a h c i R h g i H

SPOTLIGHT

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Volleyball Seniors Wayne gooden Photography

alaina armstrong WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE MEMORY AS A HIGH SCHOOL

1) ATHLETE?

Having the opportunity to be named newcomer of the year as a sophomore.

WHAT’S ONE THING THAT YOU WOULD LIKE TO ACHIEVE 2) THIS SEASON? For our team one thing I would love to achieve is winning the district.

WHAT’S YOUR PREGAME 3) RITUAL? My pregame ritual consists of jiggalo which is a chant richardson volleyball has and dancing to hype music.

IF YOU COULD GIVE ONE PIECE OF ADVICE TO THE 4) UNDERCLASSMEN, WHAT WOULD YOU TELL THEM? Don’t be afraid to be a leader. Be vocal on and off the court.

HERE AT 9INE POINT, WE BELIEVE THAT YOU ARE MORE

5) THAN JUST YOUR SPORT. OUTSIDE OF THE GAME, WHAT ELSE ARE YOU INVOLVED WITH?

Besides playing volleyball I love photography. I would say it’s a way to relieve stress off of the court.

IF YOU COULD PEPPER WITH ANY ATHLETE, WHO WOULD 6) IT BE? If i could pepper with any athlete i would choose Texas volleyball athlete Aija Oneal.

WHO HAS BEEN YOUR BIGGEST 7) INSPIRATION? My father is my biggest inspiration and always pushes me to be my best.

Hometown: Richardson, Texas Position: Outside Year: 2022 Club: Skyline High school: Richardson High School

Ayanna Grimaldo WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE MEMORY AS A HIGH

1) SCHOOL ATHLETE?

My favorite memory is sophomore year winning district with the JV team. Our last game was our biggest rival JJP. That last point we realized we went undefeated and were district champs. It was an amazing experience that I would love to relive with our team this year.

WHAT’S ONE THING THAT YOU WOULD LIKE TO 2) ACHIEVE THIS SEASON? I would love to win district with this team. We have the people, the skill, and the support we need to win this year. Last year we had it too and it was sadly cut short due to COVID. Many of us from last year have so much frustration because we didn’t have the chance and we are using it to motivate us this year.

We have an amazing team and I believe with each and every one of us we can win. We’ve had some bumps in the road but we have been able to fix them quickly because we all want to win, we all have district champs as our goal. I would absolutely love to do that for this last season and I would love to do it with this team.

WHAT’S YOUR PREGAME 3) RITUAL? I usually like to listen to music to calm and focus in, whether that’s hype up music or just music I listen to on the daily (which usually consists of pop music). Then as a team, we do our dances and stuff to get energy going for the game.

IF YOU COULD GIVE ONE PIECE OF ADVICE TO THE 4) UNDERCLASSMEN, WHAT WOULD YOU TELL THEM? Support each other. It can be in volleyball, in school, or even in your personal life. You don’t have to know everything about each other or even be best friends with each other but that doesn’t mean you can’t support each other. That support can mean everything some days when you aren’t feeling great or you just don’t want to do anything.

HERE AT 9INE POINT, WE BELIEVE THAT YOU ARE

5) MORE THAN JUST YOUR SPORT. OUTSIDE OF THE GAME, WHAT ELSE ARE YOU INVOLVED WITH?

I am in the National Honor Society, Law and Science magnet, DECA, and Student-Athlete Leadership Team for RISD.

Hometown: Richardson, Texas Position: Setter Year: 2022 Club: Stopped playing this year (played for Summit last year & Skyline in previous years) High school: Richardson High School

Caroline Huffman 1) A HIGH SCHOOL ATHLETE?

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE MEMORY AS

IF YOU COULD GIVE ONE PIECE OF 4) ADVICE TO THE UNDERCLASSMEN,

My favorite memory is more of my favorite moments of having dance parties in the locker room to warm up. Turning off the lights and blasting music while the speaker flashes color was always so fun and silly.

Laughing until our stomachs hurt because someone tried to do the worm but failed miserably will always be my favorite memories.

I would tell the underclassmen to find joy in the small things and enjoy them. Times are going to be hard, you are going to be tired or in pain, but if you can find the joy in the small things like dancing in the locker room or just goofing around with your peper partner will enjoy everything more.

WHAT’S ONE THING THAT YOU WOULD 2) LIKE TO ACHIEVE THIS SEASON?

5) THAT YOU ARE MORE THAN JUST YOUR

I would like to beat lake highlands this season.

Winning district would be great, celebrating that victory would be one to strive for, however, I feel like beating lake highlands will be a top priority. Covid took away most of our season last year and I believe that we have a lot to prove to the district and beating lake highland will prove that we are the best.

I am an avid baker. I love baking and cooking and eating all that I make. I mainly just focus on my school and grades.

WHAT’S YOUR PREGAME 3) RITUAL? My pregame ritual is playing rock paper scissors with my brother. It sounds silly but I have to do it before I go on the court.

WHAT WOULD YOU TELL THEM?

HERE AT 9INE POINT, WE BELIEVE

SPORT. OUTSIDE OF THE GAME, WHAT ELSE ARE YOU INVOLVED WITH?

IF YOU COULD PEPPER WITH ANY 6) ATHLETE, WHO WOULD IT BE? I would like to peper with TJ DeFalco on the men’s national team. He is my favorite volleyball player and even though I would undoubtedly embarrass myself I think it would be so much fun.

WHO HAS BEEN YOUR BIGGEST 7) INSPIRATION? My biggest inspiration would probably be my aunt Kirsten and my Mom. They both are strong women and are complete bosses in life. They both influence me so much to be a strong smart women in 2021 and for the future.

Hometown: Richardson, Texas Position: Right Side/ Middle Blocker Year: 2022 Club: Dallas Premier High school: Richardson High School

Zaliyah WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE

1) MEMORY AS A HIGH SCHOOL ATHLETE?

I don’t necessarily have a favorite memory, but just having the opportunity to play with my girls the full four years; no matter the different teams is definitely something I will always remember.

Tillman

WHAT’S ONE THING THAT 2) YOU WOULD LIKE TO ACHIEVE THIS SEASON?

One thing I would like to achieve this season individually is to go beyond what I am capable of, and show that I am tuff.

One thing I would like to achieve with my team is to trust them even more than I do now.

WHAT’S YOUR PREGAME 3) RITUAL? I have learned this motto from one of the coaches at camp “Breath, Reset, Compete” and I use it as a way to know once I step on the court everything else doesn’t matter besides the game.

HERE AT 9INE POINT, WE

5) BELIEVE THAT YOU ARE

MORE THAN JUST YOUR SPORT. OUTSIDE OF THE GAME, WHAT ELSE ARE YOU INVOLVED WITH?

Besides school I am always at work. If I am not at work usually I am at home learning pieces on my piano, kalimba, or dancing.

IF YOU COULD PEPPER WITH 6) ANY ATHLETE, WHO WOULD IT BE?

IF YOU COULD GIVE ONE 4) PIECE OF ADVICE TO THE

Khat Bell

One piece of advice I would give to the upperclassmen would be to go in with confidence and don’t be afraid to mess up nobody’s perfect.

My biggest inspiration would have to be my sister because she has shown me with hard work and ethic you can achieve anything.

UNDERCLASSMEN, WHAT WOULD YOU TELL THEM?

WHO HAS BEEN YOUR 7) BIGGEST INSPIRATION?

Hometown: Orlando, Florida Position: Pin Hitter, DS Year: 2022 Club: Phoenix United High school: Richardson High School

Isabella Labrada WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE MEMORY AS A

1) HIGH SCHOOL ATHLETE?

My favorite memory from high school volleyball would be the start of my 2nd year hitting during a jv ma earce.

We currently held a undefeated season and were down 12-0 the 1st match and ended up winning 26-24 and 2nd set was 25-16, I love how throughout the game despite being down we pushed and worked together to prevail and remained undefeated the entire season, this goes to show with the right mindset and teamwork anything is possible

WHAT’S ONE THING THAT YOU WOULD 2) LIKE TO ACHIEVE THIS SEASON? Improving my game by remaining consistent, having a positive mindset and being a team player

WHAT’S YOUR PREGAME 3) RITUAL?

HERE AT 9INE POINT, WE BELIEVE THAT

5) YOU ARE MORE THAN JUST YOUR SPORT. OUTSIDE OF THE GAME, WHAT ELSE ARE YOU INVOLVED WITH?

Even our favorite pros have something that they do before every competition. What’s yours? Before every game I pray, my mom sends me an inspirational text, and I listen to my game day playlist.

Photography, volunteering and coaching

IF YOU COULD GIVE ONE PIECE OF ADVICE 4) TO THE UNDERCLASSMEN, WHAT WOULD

IF YOU COULD PEPPER WITH ANY 6) ATHLETE, WHO WOULD IT BE?

A piece of advice I would give underclassmen would be don’t take anything for granted. Time flies by so don’t worry about the little things, get out of your comfort zone and do school traditions while having fun and smiling.

If I could pepper with any athlete it would be Samantha Bricio, as an athlete she has always been so dominant and I strive to have a mindset like hers and be dominant on the court at all times, she is smart with her placement and is disciplined which is a major impact on athletes who do the same.

YOU TELL THEM?

WHO HAS BEEN YOUR BIGGEST 7) INSPIRATION? My biggest inspiration would be my Mom, she has always believed in me when no one else did, not even myself. She has held me at a high exception and will always be my number one fan. My mother has supported me through the late night practices and early morning tournaments. I have gained so much inspiration from her because of how she has supported me and always reminded me to keep a positive and healthy mindset.

Hometown: Richardson, Texas Position: Pin Hitter Year: 2022 Club: Victory Volleyball High school: Richardson High School

Tiera Briggs WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE MEMORY AS

1) A HIGH SCHOOL ATHLETE?

Being recognized in any way. No matter how big or small.

WHAT’S ONE THING THAT YOU WOULD 2) LIKE TO ACHIEVE THIS SEASON? My go-to advice to underclassmen would be to find and a way to stand out!! I promise it will all be worth it as you progress in your high school career. Find ways to get involved with other things besides sports. Be social!

WHAT’S YOUR PREGAME 3) RITUAL? I have a big title to achieve in life and one of many is crucial to me. Currently, I am looking forward to completing a bachelor’s degree as a biology major.

Which can lead me to different career pathways. I hope to either study furthermore to be a registered nurse or become a science education teacher.

I F YOU COULD GIVE ONE PIECE OF 4) ADVICE TO THE UNDERCLASSMEN, WHAT WOULD YOU TELL THEM?

My favorite memory would honestly be the varsity experience. learning the varsity pre-game day and non-pre-game activities has by far been my favorite.

It was enough for me to experience the joy of opening ä first-time congratulations letter explaining how I made the varsity team, but actually getting the feel of being on the team just hits different. The energy is always there on the bench and from our lovely parents in the stands. It’s faster-paced, and it becomes better when everyone is involved just as much as you are.

HERE AT 9INE POINT, WE BELIEVE

5) THAT YOU ARE MORE THAN JUST YOUR SPORT. OUTSIDE OF THE GAME, WHAT ELSE ARE YOU INVOLVED WITH?

My grandma has always and will be my biggest inspiration when it comes to my life choices. she never forgets to lead me in the right direction.

IF YOU COULD PEPPER WITH ANY 6) ATHLETE, WHO WOULD IT BE? If I could pepper with any athlete it would be Nicklin Hames. The current University of Nebraska setter.¨ absolutely love to watch her on the court!

WHO HAS BEEN YOUR BIGGEST 7) INSPIRATION? Other than spending time playing volleyball, I love to involve myself in my AVID class. I personally struggle with procrastination and it’s always been the charm.

FGFGGHCFGHCFG HCFG GFB FGBCFG 8) BFCGB CFGB CFG ?

Jiggle Low has to be one of my favorite pre-game day rituals.

C GCFGB CFGB CFGB BFCG BCFGB 9) CFGB CFGB CFGB? I would love to achieve some type of award. Personal or Demonstration. I am big on recognition so it would mean a lot to me as a team player.

Hometown: Richardson, Texas Position: Middle Blocker Year: 2022 Club: Currently not playing High school: Richardson High School

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