Everyone finds something that they are truly passionate about. For some people, it’s painting or taking pictures. For others, maybe playing an instrument or riding horses. For sophomore Lily Cooper, her heart lays with the spirit of Volleyball.

“It’s always been volleyball,” Cooper said. “I did a lot of sports when I was younger. I tried basketball when I was in like first grade, but I was terrible. I also did soccer, and I think I also did tennis. But volleyball was the first one that I actually felt good at and I think when you find something you’re really good at, it makes it easier to do all the time, all my free time.”

Cooper has enjoyed every minute of it, too. She enjoys the opportunities that is has brought her and loves all of the friends she’s made along the way.

“It’s benefited almost every aspect of my life, like I’m healthier, I’ve got friends, I’ve gone out to new places. It’s really cool,” Cooper said.

Though she has tried many other sports beforehand, Cooper has still been locked on volleyball ever since she was 12. While attending a Lafayette camp for eighth grade volleyball players, Cooper’s previous coach observed her excellent playing and insisted she joined Club, the more advanced level of volleyball that allows one to be on travel teams. Ever since then, it’s been a major part of her life.

As one would expect, most of Cooper’s current friends were made thanks to her volleyball career.

“I was worried freshman year about walking around the hallways and not knowing anyone, but you kind of start recognizing faces once you get into something that you’re really interested in,” Cooper said. 

As volleyball is a huge part of Cooper’s life, she reflects on what it would be like if she didn’t take up volleyball.

“Well, I probably would have found something else to do, but I most likely wouldn’t have as many friends as I do now and my life wouldn’t be the same,” Cooper said.