By: Ella Carney
Mia Gilcrest, ’21, is one of many student-athletes who want to play volleyball after high school. She has played volleyball for the past three years of her high school career and would like to continue playing after she graduates. She also looks forward to finishing out her senior season.
She says, “I truly love playing volleyball along with all the many amazing new people I meet from it.”
As of right now there are no sports currently competing or truly practicing in the school league. However, Gilcrest has been able to get out and get some practice in.
She says that, “It’s been very frustrating not playing the sport I love almost everyday but I have found ways to get out on a court to improve my skills.” Gilcrest has played for Redwood Volleyball in past years as an outside hitter and truly has a passion for the sport.
“She’s the kind of player that every coach wants. Mia has her game face on and is such an explosive player. She has an amazing all-around skill. She truly is a beast.”
– Alana Montgomery, Redwood Volleyball Head Coach
(photo credit: Mia Gilcrest)
Redwoods Varsity Volleyball Coach Alana Montgomery describes Gilcrest as “determined, competitive, involved, a great leader, and just a fun person!” Coach Alana also says that Gilcrest is “very strong and is an amazing natural athlete along with being very knowledgeable of the game and is extremely versatile which makes her stand out.”
Gilcrest is planning on staying in California for college so that narrows down her options a lot. Right now the colleges that are keeping an eye on her are Saint Mary’s, Long Beach, and Fresno State.
“I love all of these schools because they are in California and Saint Mary’s and long beach are in such beautiful areas,” says Gilcrest.
(photo credit: Mia Gilcrest)
Coach Alana says, “Mia is truly an awesome volleyball player. One of the best to come through the Redwood gym. I hope she gets to show off all of her hard work because she has amazing talent. I am excited for her senior season.”
In order to stay in shape Gilcrest uses her home garage weight set and plays for a club beach volleyball team.
“Being a student athlete can be difficult at times but as long as I stay on top of my work and follow my schedule it can be quite easy.”
– Mia Gilcrest, ’21
Tags: college, outside hitter, Redwood volleyball, rhs, student athlete, volleyball