Girls Volleyball

1. Senior Margo Hernandez prepares to throw and serve the ball to Yorktown at their game on Oct. 4. Photo by Maegan Semesky. 2. Sophomore Ellen Roberts swings to spike the ball onto Yorktown's side of the court. Photo by Maegan Semesky.

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Following in family footsteps

Underclassmen who followed their older siblings into Fishers volleyball

Avery Roe roeave000@hsestudents.org

Freshman Helmina Hernandez is the fifth in her family to play high school volleyball, and the fourth to play volleyball for Fishers, following senior Margo Hernandez. Likewise, sophomore Ellen Roberts followed her two older sisters onto the Fishers team. “Well I was bad at other sports and my sisters played club volleyball when I was very young,” said Roberts. “I was dragged to every tournament and game so I just followed.” The girls were both introduced to the sport at a young age. However, Roberts decided to start playing right away while Helmina Hernandez chose to dive into other interests first. “I would watch my family play and learn more about the game,” said Helmina Hernandez. “I never really wanted to play myself because I was into basketball at that time but my mom really pushed me to try it.” Although Roberts was following her siblings into the sport, she still found her own passion for it. “I love the competition involved with one point given every play,” said Roberts. “Every team I’ve been on I’ve loved the girls and I have countless memories.” Margo Hernandez has had a similar experience throughout her career. “Volleyball has brought me some of my greatest friends and it has taught me so many life lessons,” said Margo Hernandez. The summer before her 7thgrade year, Helmina Hernandez decided she would give volleyball a shot. Despite her love for basketball, she did not feel the drive to play. “[Volleyball] was the only sport that made me want to get better. I’ve enjoyed every moment while playing,” said Helmina Hernandez. Playing the same sport as her siblings has helped Roberts improve more than just her game. She has been able to strengthen her relationship with them as well. “[Volleyball] was something that got us closer,” said Roberts. “Talking about it, good or bad, and constant encouragement. I could talk about a problem knowing they understand me.” Margo Hernandez was driven by her siblings to work harder in the sport. Her goals have been shaped by what she saw her siblings experience. “I know volleyball is the right sport for me because I am so happy when I play it,” said Margo Hernandez. “I forget about everything else going on and just play.” Roberts and Helmina Hernandez both emphasized the amount of energy they get from the loud atmosphere. There is always something to cheer for after each play which helps with stress levels on the court. “My favorite memory from volleyball so far was taking a set off of HSE,” said Helmina Hernandez. “Even though we didn’t win, my whole team played very well. We would cheer so loud which made it even more fun.” By following her family into the sport, Helmina Hernandez gained more than just the knowledge they shared. “I’ve made decisions based on my older siblings' experiences,” said Helmina Hernandez. “Which, in the end, has made my volleyball career easier so far.”