Take the Court with our Player of the Week: Ryan G.

This week, we’re spotlighting Ryan from Girls 17 Platinum—a player whose passion for the sport and dedication to her team make her a standout both on and off the court. Whether she’s leading with energy during games or supporting her teammates off the court, Ryan embodies what it means to play with heart. Let’s dive into why Ryan is our Player of the Week and what makes her an integral part of Prevail Volleyball Club.

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Meet Ryan: Inspired by Family, Driven by Passion

Ryan’s volleyball journey began at home, watching her brother take an interest in the sport. She quickly became captivated by volleyball’s energy and complexity, leading her to step onto the court herself.

“My brother got interested, and I started to get more involved and interested as I watched him play.”

Since then, Ryan has flourished as a player, finding a home at Prevail Volleyball Club. For her, Prevail offers more than just volleyball—it’s a community of support and encouragement.

“The environment and friendships at Prevail are my favorite thing. There will always be another Prevail team, coach, or player watching your games and wanting you to succeed.”

This sense of camaraderie is what fuels Ryan’s love for the game and drives her to give her best every time she steps on the court.

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A Teammate Who Cares Deeply

When asked what her coaches and teammates would say about her, Ryan’s answer highlights her greatest strengths: her passion, accountability, and genuine care for others.

“I think my best quality is how much I care about the sport and the players, as well as my accountability.”

Ryan’s care extends beyond the court. She makes it a priority to ensure her teammates feel supported in all aspects of life, whether they’re dealing with challenges in volleyball or facing personal stressors.

“Off the court, I make sure my team knows I’m there if they need to talk about volleyball or something stressing them out in general.”

Her ability to connect with her teammates on a personal level builds trust and fosters a sense of unity that strengthens the entire team.

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Strong Bonds with Coach and Teammates

Ryan shares a unique relationship with her coach, who is also her dad. While coaching from a parent can sometimes feel intense, Ryan recognizes the care and intention behind every piece of feedback.

“Me and my coach are really close (he’s my dad). At times it’s hard to get along, but I know it’s just that he wants the best for me and is trying to coach me into the player I want to become.”

Her connection with her teammates is just as meaningful. Ryan describes her team as a tight-knit group that shares the same goals and interests, which made forming close bonds easy and natural.

“Me and my teammates are very close. We all want to see each other succeed, and we share so many interests that it was easy to get close so fast.”

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A Team That Plays as One

For Ryan, volleyball isn’t just about technical skill—it’s about playing together as a cohesive unit. She appreciates how her team is able to enjoy the game and perform their best when they play as a group.

“We play better when we are playing as a group, not 6 individual players. I appreciate how we are able to play the sport we love while having a good time and not putting too much pressure on ourselves.”

This mentality helps Ryan and her team maintain a positive and focused attitude, even during high-stakes matches. It’s a reminder of why they all started playing volleyball in the first place: for the love of the game.

“The idea that it’s supposed to be the sport you love will always be valuable to me. When you put too much pressure on yourself, you ruin the bond with the sport you love.”

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Leading with Energy and Encouragement

Ryan’s leadership style is rooted in her ability to inspire and uplift those around her. She understands the importance of creating a positive and energetic atmosphere during games, which helps her team stay focused and motivated.

“On the court, I try to be loud and keep energy up to encourage my teammates.”

Her encouragement doesn’t stop when the match ends. Off the court, Ryan is a constant source of support, always ready to lend an ear or a helping hand. Her dedication to her teammates ensures they know they can count on her, no matter the situation.

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What’s Next for Ryan?

Ryan’s passion for the game and her unwavering commitment to her team make her a true leader on Girls 17 Platinum. As she continues to grow as a player and build deeper connections with her teammates, there’s no doubt that she’ll leave a lasting impact on Prevail Volleyball Club.

Her story serves as a reminder that volleyball is more than just a sport—it’s about community, connection, and the shared joy of playing the game you love.

Stay tuned for more inspiring stories like Ryan’s as we celebrate the athletes of Prevail Volleyball Club on Teammate Tuesday. Who will take the court next?