St. John Paul II Catholic School eighth-grader Sydney Schneider has spent the past two years carving out her place as one of the school’s most impactful volleyball players.
She has played the sport for three years, but has been a two-year outside hitter on the school’s team. Sydney has become a driving force on the court, being one of the team’s leaders in kills, aces, and service points throughout her middle school career. Though she’s only been playing the sport for three years, her growth and dedication show far beyond her age.
Sydney doesn’t just limit her passion for volleyball to the school season. She also competes in club volleyball, something she says continues to shape her as an athlete.
“One of my favorite things is transitioning from school to club because there are so many different game styles,” Sydney shared.
That eagerness to learn and adjust is part of what makes her such a skilled player.
During St. John Paul II’s matchup against Sandhills Classical, where Sandhills Sentinel was in attendance, Sydney’s height and athleticism stood out immediately. She attacked the ball with confidence and supported the players around her. What stood out just as much as her play was her leadership.
Multiple times throughout the game, she encouraged teammates after tough rallies and helped keep the team’s intensity high. Even in our interview, she made a point to compliment a fellow teammate, praising her strengths and growth.
Next year, Sydney will begin her high school volleyball career at Pinecrest, a transition she’s excited about.
“I am excited, and I’m looking forward to playing there,” Sydney said. Off the court, she follows the Nebraska volleyball program and looks up to Madison Skinner as her favorite player.
While volleyball plays a big role in her life, Sydney remains dedicated to her academics, maintaining good grades and working hard to be a strong student first. Her long-term goal is to become an emergency room doctor, a dream that she has had for a long time. Sydney is interested in a few colleges.
“I don’t really have a favorite, but my top three would be Pittsburgh, Nebraska, or Texas,” Sydney explained.
When she’s not spiking volleyballs or studying, Sydney enjoys being outdoors and spending time with friends and family.
If you know a student athlete that you would like to nominate for a Student Athlete Spotlight, you can email [email protected] or [email protected].
Feature photo: Sydney Schneider poses before a game. Photo by Curtis Self/Sandhills Sentinel.
~Article by Curtis Self, a Sandhills Sentinel reporter and owner of Moore Daily Sports. Follow them on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.
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