Name: Lauren Ridgway
Year: senior
Hometown: Burr Ridge
What are you most excited about this volleyball season?
Probably being a captain of varsity because I get to have such a big impact on the younger players. I'm captain for community outreach, so my job is to reach out to the feeder schools to encourage them to come to our games and encourage the younger players to be the best version of ourselves on and off the court. It's great being able to represent the program in that way.
When did your volleyball journey begin?
I started playing in seventh grade. I saw my friends playing, and I was very much encouraged to because I'm 6 (feet) 2 (inches).
How have you evolved as player since freshman year?
I'm a middle hitter, and when I started playing, I was very lanky so I wasn't in control of my body. But I just had such drive and motivation to became the best player I could. I tore my labrum sophomore year and had to push through and persevere to return.
How would your teammates describe you?
I'm definitely not the best player on the team, but what my team appreciates is my attitude and my character. I'm extremely encouraging and I also get super-excited during games.
What are your goals for the season?
For the team my goal is for us to all truly be friends on and off the court by doing a lot of team bonding with them. For me, I want to become better, faster and stronger in every aspect of the game, putting myself in a better position to play college.
What's another talent you have?
I am involved in pageantry. I was Miss Illinois Junior Teen in 2017, and I'm competing for Miss Illinois Teen this year.
Do you have a guiding mantra?
When you're not working, someone else is. You have to accept that there are people who will be working harder than you.
Why does coach Tracey Marshall like having Ridgway on the squad?
She's committed to play at DePauw University. She is our community outreach captain and yearbook editor. She's a great teammate and role model.
- profile by Ken Knutson, photo by Jim Slonoff
- A different Central student will be selected each week by his or her coach to be featured in this profile.
