Take the Court with our Player of the Week: Nate M.

This week’s Teammate Tuesday spotlight is on Nate M. from 18 Platinum, a player whose quiet confidence, commitment to improvement, and love for the game make him a cornerstone of his team. With a mentality shaped by elite role models and a deep appreciation for great coaching, Nate plays with purpose, resilience, and the kind of mindset that sets the tone for high-level volleyball. Let’s dive into why Nate is our Player of the Week and how he’s continuing to grow as both a player and a leader.

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Getting Started: A Freshman Year Turning Point

Nate’s volleyball journey began during his freshman year of high school—a late start compared to many club athletes, but one that clicked quickly. From the moment he stepped on the court, the game captured his attention, and it didn’t take long for him to find his stride.

“I got involved with volleyball freshman year.”

That season laid the foundation for what would become a focused and intentional path toward becoming one of 18 Platinum’s most reliable players.

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Why Prevail? Coaching That Makes a Difference

For Nate, Prevail Volleyball Club stands out because of the coaching staff—a group of mentors who are as invested in character development as they are in winning matches.

“My favorite thing about Prevail is the coaching staff.”

With each practice and tournament, Nate continues to absorb knowledge from those around him, trusting the process and leaning on coaches who know how to push players in the right ways.

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A Role Model with the Right Mindset: Erick Shoji

In both life and volleyball, Nate finds inspiration in Erick Shoji, the U.S. Men’s National Team libero known for his technical precision, strong leadership, and above all—his positivity.

“I admire his positivity.”

That attitude has become a model for how Nate approaches the game: with focus, calm, and a willingness to learn from every moment—especially the tough ones.

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Learning from Mistakes and Playing Your Game

One of the most important lessons Nate has learned from watching his role models is that mistakes are part of growth. He doesn’t get rattled after a missed play—instead, he resets, refocuses, and keeps competing.

“Mistakes make you better.”

This growth mindset shows in the way Nate plays: composed under pressure and always looking for ways to raise his game.

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Players Who Inspire Him Every Day

While he admires international icons like Shoji, Nate also finds motivation closer to home. He looks up to players like Logan Tran and Matt Spragg, whose leadership, consistency, and court presence leave a lasting impression.

“Logan Tran and Matt Spragg are players I look up to.”

Their example reminds Nate to lead by example, communicate effectively, and trust in his preparation.

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Influence in Action: Keep It Simple, Play Your Game

The best advice Nate carries with him is also the simplest—go in and play your game. It’s a reminder to stay true to who he is as a player, block out distractions, and perform with confidence.

“Go in and play your game.”

That grounded approach is part of what makes Nate such a steady presence for 18 Platinum—his ability to focus on execution, support his team, and elevate the energy when it counts.

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What’s Next for Nate?

As Nate wraps up his final club season, he brings a calm intensity to every practice, every match, and every rally. Fueled by great coaching, inspired by elite athletes, and trusted by his teammates, Nate continues to play his game, lead with focus, and grow with purpose.

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