The Shield: What would you say is your favorite part of playing volleyball?

Alexa Fannin: My favorite part is those moments when I execute a good play, and we just all celebrate as one.

TS: Would you say that is also a part of why you like the McCallum team?

AF: I like the McCallum team because of that and because everyone has a really good talent within them.
TS: It seems like you’re really close with your team. How would you say you guys have gotten so close?

AF: This year I’ve branched out in my confidence. The overnight Kerrville tournament got me really close with everyone, as well as starting team dinners.

TS: What has been your favorite memory on the team so far?

AF: In Kerrville, we rode a busty van down there, and everyone called it “da van,” so now it’s like an inside joke.

TS: Why has this year been so much fun?

AF: There’s just no cliquey behavior this year. It’s everyone talking to everyone and friendly with everyone.

TS: Do you think that’s part of the reason your team is doing so well this year?

AF: For sure. It takes more than just practice to form a good team.

TS: That makes perfect sense. What else do you think has helped you guys be successful?

AF: Support and encouragement off and on the court. As well as mostly all of us play outside of school, so we are skilled on our own coming into the season.

TS: What has been the most challenging part about this year?

AF: I think balancing schoolwork and college recruiting, training and practice every day of the week. It’s been challenging, but worth it.

TS: It’s very impressive that you’re able to balance all of that and stay successful with volleyball. What do you think has motivated you this year to keep pushing yourself?

AF: It is my senior year, and I really would like to play on a scholarship at the next level.

AF: I’ve been communicating with a couple of different ones, so I’m really open to most colleges. I’d like to stay at the D1 or D2 level.

TS: It’s good that you’re keeping your options open! As it’s your last year at McCallum, how has your experience been as a senior on the team?

AF: It’s been really empowering actually. It’s given me a sense of confidence and leadership.

TS: Do you think it’s helped you improve as a player as well?

AF: Yes. Volleyball is all about constant communication and collaboration, and it has given me a lot of that.

TS: You guys are approaching a landmark soon right? 30 wins? How does that feel?

AF: Yes we are. With tomorrow’s game I’m 100 percent confident we’re going to reach the 30-win landmark. It feels amazing because volleyball gets nowhere near the recognition that it deserves and even without our home crowd support, we can still be amazing.

TS: Are you excited for the rest of the year?

AF: For the school year, I’m excited for it because I’m a senior! I’ve made it! I’m super pumped for the rest of the season because it’s playoff time, and we have a big chance of making it past first round.

TS: What are you most proud of this season?

AF: Competing for first place in blocks with Dripping Springs middle and being top 12 percent in the region.

TS: How long have you been playing volleyball?

AF: Six years.

TS: Is there anything else you would like to add?

AF: I appreciate all of my coaches’ support throughout my four years, especially Coach Brodbeck for seeing my potential from ninth grade, and I love my teammates with all my heart. I’m excited for the next step in my volleyball career.