Triumph on the Court: Hannah Ball Takes the Crown as 2023 All-Metro Girls Volleyball Player of the Year!

From Pandemic Pedals to Volleyball Royalty: The Unconventional Rise of Midlothian’s Star

In a remarkable turn of events, Midlothian’s own Hannah Ball has been crowned the 2023 All-Metro girls volleyball player of the year, capping off a stellar career and embodying resilience in the face of adversity.

Building Strength in Lockdown: The Pandemic Pause and Ball’s Unconventional Training Regimen

Four years ago, during the COVID-19 pandemic pause, Ball, then a rising freshman, took control of her destiny. With gyms shuttered and life at a standstill, she turned to an unconventional training method—biking. This dedicated effort not only kept her active during the lockdown but also laid the foundation for the explosive leg strength that would become her secret weapon on the volleyball court.

Soaring to New Heights: Ball’s Dominance on the Volleyball Court

Fast forward to the present, and Ball’s hard work has paid off in spades. As an outside hitter and a cornerstone of the Trojans’ lineup, she dominated the 2023 season with an impressive tally of 339 kills, 50 aces, and 183 digs. Her height and leg strength proved to be a formidable combination, earning her the title of the all-time kills leader at Midlothian.

Leadership Beyond the Court: Ball’s Impact on a Young Trojans Squad

Reflecting on her journey, Ball shared, “During my 14s and 15s, my legs got stronger. Then I was able to jump so much higher.” Midlothian’s head coach, Sherman Chung, praised Ball not only for her athletic prowess but also for her humility and leadership on and off the court. Ball’s impact on the team extended beyond her individual achievements; she played a pivotal role in guiding a younger Trojans squad, fostering camaraderie and resilience.

Overcoming Adversity: Lessons from Loss and the Trojans’ Journey to Redemption

Despite facing challenges, including a loss to St. Catherine’s that ended a remarkable winning streak, Ball maintained a relentless work ethic. Her commitment to excellence and unwavering determination set the tone for the Trojans, ultimately leading them to the Region 5C title.

A Triumphant Farewell: Ball’s Legacy, Gratitude, and the All-Metro Player of the Year Accolade

As she leaves Midlothian with a legacy of success, including three All-Metro first-team selections, Ball expressed gratitude for the people she met along the way. “I think it shows that all the hard work I put in is paying off, and people are recognizing me, and it feels really good,” she said upon being named the All-Metro player of the year. While Ball has decided not to pursue volleyball at the collegiate level, she leaves the high school and club scene on a triumphant note, savoring the memories created with her teammates. As she transitions to a new chapter, the accolade of All-Metro player of the year stands as a testament to Hannah Ball’s extraordinary journey and indomitable spirit on the volleyball court.