Elizabeth Sessa
Hinsdale
How did you start playing volleyball?
I started playing club when I was in sixth grade. At that age, I wanted to try everything, and it's the one that really stuck.
What has kept you playing?
I think it's consistently been my teammates, the camaraderie and friendships that you can make from the sport.
How have you improved since your freshman year?
I think the biggest thing has probably just been confidence. The skills have obviously progressed. It's just such a good community of people that I've come into my own, I think.
What do you try to do as a team captain?
I think it's just making sure that everyone feels welcome and can give their best every day - if that's talking to someone if they're struggling or just making sure everyone's hyped up and ready to go before a game.
What is the best advice you've gotten from a coach?
Just forget about it - move on to the next point. It's so easy for teams to go on runs in volleyball. You just have to stay where your feet are and focus on the next point.
What's your favorite pre-game meal?
My and my two friends Emma and Paige always make a Starbucks run before the game. Whatever I get from Starbucks that day (mango dragonfruit refresher) usually does it.
What would people be surprised to know about you?
I love making stuff. I like making little posters and stuff for our team Instagram, so I guess I have a creative side of me.
What are your plans for next year?
I'm actually committed for volleyball to Brown University. I'm thinking of (studying) engineering or computer science, something STEM.
Why does coach Kelly Stapleton like having her on the team?
Elizabeth Sessa has been on the varsity team for the last four years. She is a talented volleyball player, but an even better role model for our younger athletes. Sessa is committed to excellence in the classroom as well as on the court. She is one of the kindest people you will ever meet. Her competitive spirit makes those around her better.
- profile by Pamela Lannom, photo by Jim Slonoff
