By Matt Browning
There are several first-time varsity volleyball players for Solomon this season, so senior Maya Newcomer understands the importance of being a leader.
“What I am most excited about for this upcoming season is being a leader and a mentor for the other girls on the team,” Newcomer said. “We have a few first-time varsity players moving up this year and I can remember how it was sometimes a little scary and overwhelming when I started varsity as a freshman. I’m excited to help them transition to that varsity role and I want to make sure it’s an enjoyable experience for them.”
Newcomer is a middle hitter for the Gorillas, so she is all over the court on the front row. She has to be able to have the energy to be effective all game long.
“It can also be very demanding during long rallies and tournaments,” Newcomer said. “It’s important to me to be in my best shape so I can perform my best for my team. I have worked on this in the offseason by playing other sports in the school year and summer. As well as, running on my own and staying active in my free time.”
As an honorable mention all-league selection last season, Newcomer racked up 56 kills and 26 solo blocks, with a hitting percentage of .264.
“One goal I have for myself is to have more blocks than I did last year,” Newcomer said. “One goal I have for the team is to win at least one of the tournaments in the season. We came close last year with placing second at two of the tournaments we went to.”
