Colin Ching's journey to success

Colby Liu

Colin Ching, 5’11”, is an incredibly athletic 13-year-old who has quickly risen to the top rank in California’s youth volleyball.

Despite playing only 10 months, Colin has been able to play with those with years of experience, joining MVVC’s (Mountain View Volleyball Club) 13 Red team, MVVC’s top level for 13-year-olds.

Though this season is coming to an end, his team's achievements have been astonishing, placing first (gold), second (silver), and third (bronze) in their past three tournaments Placing first in one of the biggest tournaments in Anaheim quickly led his team to the top ranks.

Colin's team usually practices three times a week but are switching to four practices a week to prepare for the Nationals tournament held in Orlando, Florida.

Next season he hopes to stay on the team and to overall improve to eventually be able to play in the highest leagues. On top of that, he especially looks forward to playing in Nationals and placing well, so they can get a good rank in not only California, but the whole country

Colin, who plays middle blocker, says his position is sometimes “very tiring…I’m constantly jumping the whole game with no breaks.”

If he could play one other position, it would be opposite hitter. “They have a lot less work and don’t require as much stamina,” he said. However, he would still like to play middle blocker because his favorite things to do in volleyball are blocking and hitting.

For beginners to get better, he recommends learning how to jump higher, gain better body control, and grow taller. “My height and strength is one of my biggest advantages,” he said.

Despite the hard work Colin has put into his achievements, he acknowledges his winnings also come from those who support him.

He especially thanks Bauer Lee, his mentor throughout his volleyball career

“He’s been my mentor ever since I started playing," explains Colin. "Every goal, every win, every achievement comes from the support and love from my mentor. He's been through the ups and downs, and I honestly can't thank him enough.”

Colin emphasizes the idea to never take too much pride in achievements, but instead be aware of those who made it possible.

"Success may take hard work, but if you acknowledge those who are helping you and made it possible, you may soar to greater heights."