Elle Holley (11) has been mastering volleyball since second grade, but soon she’ll be taking on a new challenge—playing at an Ivy League school. Recently, Holley verbally committed to play at the renowned Brown University.
Ivy League schools are known for their intense competitiveness, so playing for Brown is a one-of-a-kind opportunity for Holley.
“I am so thankful for the opportunity to continue my volleyball career at such a high level and prestigious school. I’ve worked my whole life for a chance to go play in college, so it makes all of the extra hours worth it, and I couldn’t feel more excited.”
Holley had been speaking with a few other Ivy League schools such as Yale and Harvard, but Brown felt like the best fit for her.
“I loved the coaching staff at Brown and some of the other schools did not match my timeline in regards to when I wanted to be committed by, or they already had girls committed in the same position I played,” Holley explained about her decision to play at Brown.
Another factor that drew her to Brown was that she would have the chance to explore a variety of subjects she’s interested in like art, biology, psychology, and nursing.
“Brown’s open curriculum will allow me to take multiple different classes before I pick my major, which is amazing because I’m not yet sure what I want to study,” she commented.
To Holley, volleyball is an important part of her life because it’s given her the chance to meet new people and improve her character.
“It has taught me patience, discipline, and how to become a better person and teammate on and off the court,” Holley reflected on how volleyball has impacted her.
Anastasia Hallam, the head volleyball coach, commended Holley’s skills as a player.
“Elle handles the pressure with excellence. Her teammates can trust her to do what needs to be done,” Hallam praised.
Even with this monumental accomplishment achieved, Holley isn’t stopping anytime soon; she’s diligently working to support her team and prepare for the future.
“Lake Highlands volleyball is heading into playoffs soon, and we are determined to come out first in district,” she mentioned.
“I also need to continue to keep my grades up and start thinking about my club season that starts in December!”
As she finishes up her volleyball season at LHHS and begins her club season, Holley will be refining her skills to tackle Brown in the near future.
