A sports team captain is not only a leader but also a guiding force that inspires and pushes the team toward success. Sydney Strenger, 12, exemplifies this position perfectly, exhibiting leadership qualities that impel her volleyball team to new heights. Beyond her leadership, she also nurtures a strong sense of unity, collaboration and perseverance within the team, ensuring that every member works toward a common goal.
As team captain, Strenger not only leads by example on the court but also encounters the demanding challenge of balancing the responsibilities of athletics with the rigors of academics.
“Time was the biggest obstacle when it came to balancing my athletic career with academics,” Strenger said. “I did not have time to take AP classes or do service hours for the National Honor Society, because I had to focus more on my sport getting me to college.”
Being involved in sports instills valuable life lessons in athletes that extend far beyond the game.
“I had to learn that being the best volleyball player can’t define who I am as a person nor my personality,” Strenger said. “I found myself basing my sense of identity and emotions on my athletic performance, but I realized that being the best at volleyball doesn’t define me as a person.”
Strenger also recalled one of her most memorable moments from playing volleyball at Emerson.
“I reached my 1,000th kill this year, which was a really memorable moment for me,” Strenger said. “I’ve been playing for Emerson for the past four years, so hitting that milestone was very fulfilling.”
Lauren Wright, the head volleyball coach, has played an instrumental role in Strenger’s athletic success and helped Strenger elevate her game.
“Coach Wright truly inspires me,” Strenger said. “She’s easily the strongest woman I know, and she’s taught me how to push through challenges in life and believe that I can handle difficult situations. She’s not only helped me become a better volleyball player but also a stronger woman.”
In the next phase of Strenger’s life, she will venture into a new chapter as she takes her talents to the Division I level, playing volleyball at Lipscomb University in Nashville, TN.
“When I met the coach at Lipscomb, I was really drawn to him,” Strenger said. “He is always a positive and happy person. I also love Nashville, it’s my favorite city in the world. I didn’t feel the need to be at the top-performing school; I just wanted to be somewhere I felt happy and comfortable. Because of this, I am really looking forward to my time at Lipscomb.”
