2 minute read
Alumni Spotlight
from 2022 Summer Beacon
by Harbor Day
An Interview with
Reed Wainwright'20
Team USA reaches the semifinals and qualifies for the FIVB Volleyball Boys' U19 World Championship. Reed on the top row, number 17
Reed at the Pan American Cup
Reed traveled to Guatemala to play volleyball in the 2022 Pan American Cup with the Boys U19 National Team. The team won the tournament, defeating Mexico in the finals. At 6"7" , Reed plays outside hitter on the St. Margaret’s Episcopal School and Balboa Bay Volleyball Club (VBC) teams and is the middle blocker for the National Team.
When did you realize you were good at volleyball?
I always liked playing volleyball on the beach with my dad, and at HDS for Coach Curci. I started on Balboa Bay Volleyball Club at 13, but I was 14 when I made it on the (top) 1’s team.
How were you chosen for the National Team and what was it like to play at the Pan Am Cup?
Twenty-one players from around the country were invited to Anaheim to play in a practice format and they chose 12 players from there. We all sort of knew each other from tournaments, and it was the strongest team I have played with.
What do you think makes a good leader?
I admire our Libero (defensive specialist) on Balboa Bay VBC. He is a good leader because he is able to bring the team together. Our National Team coach talked a lot about what makes a good team—the culture of playing for each other and having good chemistry. My high school team has the best chemistry of any team I’ve played with.
What has volleyball taught you about yourself?
I have a competitive side, a desire to win. I had it when
I played basketball and I also have it with volleyball.
And I’ve learned how much I like being part of a team.
Where do you hope volleyball takes you in the future?
My ultimate goal is the Olympics. That would be amazing! I’d like to play in college and overseas professionally.
Do you have any words of advice for HDS student athletes?
While you’re there, pick a sport that is the most fun for you because if you like it the most, you will be the best at it. n
