Wingspan: Why do you play volleyball?
Fink: “I started playing volleyball when I was younger after my mom signed me up for PSA. However, I began playing club volleyball in eighth grade after I really enjoyed playing in seventh grade with my friends. Since then, I’ve continued playing both club and school volleyball.”
Wingspan: What is your biggest takeaway from high school volleyball?
Fink: “My biggest lesson from high school is to never take a single moment for granted. I’m truly grateful for every girl I’ve had the chance to play alongside. The school season flies by so quickly, so it’s important to cherish every second before it’s over. Especially this year, with half of our team being seniors, I’ve learned to appreciate every moment because I know these will be the last times we’re all together. I’m really trying to soak it all in and enjoy every bit of it.”
Wingspan: What are you most excited about this season?
Fink: “One of the things I’m most excited about is playoffs. We’ve already secured our spot, and I’m super excited because playoffs are always such a great bonding experience. Since playoffs are single-elimination, we’ve been working really hard to perfect the little details before districts end, so we’re fully prepared for any team we might face.”
Wingspan: What does your practice routine look like?
Fink: “Our practices usually start with routines and serving. Then, we move on to a warm-up game or sixes’s. Most of our time is spent doing position based work or focusing on areas we need to improve, so we can be better prepared for our next game.”
Wingspan: Who is your biggest supporter?
Fink: “My biggest supporters are definitely my parents and Coach Pennington. My parents have been with me since day one of my volleyball journey. They’re always there for me, especially after a tough game, reminding me that one performance doesn’t define all the hard work I’ve put in. Coach Pennington has also been an incredible supporter. Even though she’s new this year, we connected right away and she’s quickly become my loudest cheerleader.”
Wingspan: How do you stay in a positive mindset after not playing a great game?
Fink: “After a bad game, I always talk about it to my parents when I get home. I also know I have the support of all my teammates, so even though I might not play my best, they still acknowledge that I do the best that I can and support me no matter what.”
Wingspan: Do you plan to continue your volleyball career after high school?
Fink: “I don’t plan to continue my volleyball career after high school. After spending so much of my time from elementary through high school playing club sports (club soccer until freshman year and club volleyball starting in eighth grade) I feel ready to move on from that phase of my life. In college, I’d rather focus my time and energy on academics and explore new opportunities outside of sports.”
Wingspan: What impact has volleyball had on your life?
Fink: “Volleyball has taught me some of the most valuable lessons in my life and given me some of the best friends and sweetest friendships I’ll always cherish. It’s shown me how important it is to trust the people around you, and how being your true self can positively impact your team’s dynamic. Without volleyball, I don’t think I would have found the amazing group of people who are now some of my closest friends. I am so grateful for every person and every opportunity volleyball has given me.”
