I reached out to some of our recent alumni for their wisdom and advice for preseason athletes. Enjoy! (And add your own words of encouragement!)

Rae Underberg, Captain, ’11:

Despite the difficult nature of starting preseason (whether this is the first time you are playing after a long, lazy summer, or the first time ever playing the sport), preseason is one hundred percent worth the sweat. Working hard in preseason not only reaps benefits in terms of preparing physically for the season and brushing up on skills, but it also sets the tone for the season. Working through grueling training during the preseason gets you mentally ready for any tough in-game moments during the season. Also, giving all you have during preseason shows your team that you are completely dedicated and want to help the team be the best it can be. This is especially important in developing the trust that really is so crucial to volleyball. So remember, when you’re out there struggling through two-a-days, in the end it will not only help your own development, but your hard work also contributes to the team chemistry and of course, future success.

Lydia Stinson, ’11:

Dear new people and Khrystyna (who really doesn’t need to read this but, “Hi Khrystyna!”),

I’m incredibly jealous you’re playing volleyball at Williston right now. Preseason preshmeesum. It will stink at times but it will totally be worth it!

Some of my best memories were made on those courts. Por ejemplo, nick naming became quite the fad of the volleyball team back in my hay day (lol). Your coach, Diane Williams, has quite a few names she goes by. Please refer to her as DYNO! (short for Dynamiteeee!!!!) or Dianamite. Whatever makes you sleep at night. She will only respond to you on the court by these names, I swear. So do it.

My number one tip would have to be: if you’re having a bad day or have anything in particular on your mind that’s bothering you, talk to Dyno or the assistant coach (you need to come up with a good nick name for her) before practice. Try to not let it affect your game. This includes that lucky time of month and all that jazz. It happens, we’ve all been there, tears have been shed and battles have been lost. But seriously your coaches are very good resources for absolutely everything so make good use of them!

…and try to stay focused or else Dyno will get mad. Unless it’s something that totally interests her. Then by all means go for it!!!

Have fun and make me proud since you’re already making me jealous!

- Lydia Stinson

Naomi Lam, ’11:

Here’s some of my advice:

• Stay on your feet.
• Encouragements are always appreciated, always be supportive on and off the court!

From Kristy Smith, ’11:

Hey Williston Volleyballs!!!

My name is Kristy Smith, Or K.Smith, as I was called on the team, and want you to know you are about to be a part of a very unique team and have the best season of your life! Senior year, when Coach D came into our life, was the BEST volleyball season I’ve ever had all throughout high school! She is the sweetest and most hilarious coach you will ever have! But also she’s no joke so make sure you listen up! She knows what she’s doing!

The most important thing you can do this season is HAVE FUN and be silly, because life is short and the moments I’ve had laughing in the gym after a great practice are ones I won’t ever forget.

Give your all every practice and it will make you a better player and person. Coach is ALWAYS there for you on all days the good and the bad is there to listen to you no matter what is going on! Make sure you help your TEAMMATES always because you are all in it TOGETHER, support and love each other! And with each practice try your hardest! GOOOO Willy!

Xoxo Kristy

Rachel Fechser, Captain, ’12:

Advice for preseason: be yourself, be loud, outgoing, don’t be afraid, go for it, and obviously DANCE… You’re stuck with these girls all season so start now and don’t hesitate to start making these friendships that will last far beyond the walls of the Williston gym. This is the time to work your hardest, and you’re able to because it’s your main priority — you have a week until classes… so volleyball is it! The season will go by quicker then you think or even want, so start from day one putting your energy into it. Don’t be afraid to talk to Coach, even if it’s not about volleyball, her knowledge goes far beyond this sport and she’s an awesome person to have on your side!  That court is your safe place, away from the gossip of your grade, away from the hardships of your classes, away from that boy who doesn’t deserve you, away from anything but volleyball.  That court, with those girls is where you can fully escape anything and everything going on outside those two hours of practice, so take full advantage, let your frustration out and feel safe.

Good luck girls and I cannot wait to hear about the season, I’m sooo excited about this blog and that I can keep up with all of you even easier now (especially with my deactivated facebook :-/) Have fun, be good, and work together! GOOOOOO Wildcats

Loveeee Rachel <3