🏐 Alumni of the Week: Arun Gopinath

Elizabethtown College | Prevail Class of ‘24

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A New Position, A New Beginning

For Arun Gopinath, his first season at Prevail wasn’t just another chapter—it was a complete shift. He was stepping into a new position, unfamiliar territory that would test his adaptability and stretch his skills. But it was in that transition that something clicked.

“Prevail gave me the opportunity to be in the gym often. That helped me grow to love the sport.”

And with every rep, every adjustment, Arun began to understand that growth wasn’t about being perfect—it was about being present.

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Four Coaches, One Foundation

It wasn’t just one coach who shaped Arun’s path—it was a team. Clark. Gentry. EJ. Brie. Together, they formed a coaching core that left a lasting impact.

“I learned so many different skills from each of them, and they all contributed to the player I am today.”

Their influence helped Arun grow into a well-rounded athlete, setting goals, staying focused, and using every season to get better.

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From Club Film to College Reality

The recruiting journey wasn’t about flashy highlight reels—it was about consistency and opportunity. Prevail gave Arun what he needed to be seen: match footage, competitive reps, and a solid foundation.

“It provided me with ample film I could send to colleges.”

That film—and the hard work behind it—helped pave the way to Elizabethtown College, where Arun continues to make his mark both on the court and in the classroom, earning Academic Honor Roll honors.

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Finding Balance at the Next Level

The biggest adjustment? Balancing school and volleyball. It’s a reality that hits fast for college
athletes. But Arun tackled it the same way he approached practices—with a plan.

“I kept a planner. That helped me balance academics, athletics, and my social life.”

He also discovered a fun surprise in the process:

“I was shocked by how many guys I knew from playing school and club.”

Volleyball, it turns out, makes the world feel smaller—in the best way.

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Advice for the Next Generation

If Arun could give his younger self a piece of advice, it’s simple:

“Learn how to play defense.”

And to current Prevail athletes chasing their college dreams?

“Go into the gym with a goal. Get at least 2% better every time you’re in there.”

It’s that kind of intentional focus that helped him grow from a position-shifting rookie into a collegiate competitor.

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Staying Connected

Being a Prevail alum means something to Arun—it’s a badge of pride and a reminder of how far he’s come.

“It’s given me the opportunity to play at high levels.”

He still stays close to the game: playing outdoor tournaments, dropping into Prevail to help out, and keeping the energy alive in every season.

And yes—he sees coaching in his future.

Just don’t forget the final words of wisdom from Coach Clark:

“Don’t drop the baby.”

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#AlumnioftheWeek | #OncePrevailAlwaysPrevail