Hope Martin
Community Christian High School
Hope Martin’s love for volleyball started in the sixth grade, and what began as a fun activity with friends quickly turned into a lifelong passion. “I started playing volleyball because it looked like a lot of fun and all of my friends were doing it,” Hope shared. “Now, I do it because I love the sport and the many friendships I’ve made throughout the years.”
As a standout middle hitter for Community Christian High School, Hope’s role on the team is pivotal. “My specific role is being a middle hitter and putting up a good block,” she explained. To prepare for her key responsibilities, Hope works hard on her vertical jump and makes sure to stay in sync with her teammates. Her dedication to improvement is clear, both on and off the court, as she focuses on becoming a better player every day.
One of the biggest challenges Hope has faced this season is bouncing back from injuries. “This year, I sprained my ankle twice within two months,” she said. “Having to build back up my vertical over and over again and getting my chemistry back with the setters was tough.” Despite these setbacks, Hope’s resilience has allowed her to overcome these obstacles and continue contributing to her team’s success.
Hope’s team is more than just a group of players to her—they are like family. “We as a team are really close both inside and outside of the sport of volleyball,” she explained. This strong bond helps her play better and move on from any mistakes, keeping her focus on the next play. Her advice to younger athletes reflects this mindset: “Always be encouraging and never talk bad to your teammates or about them… have the mind of a goldfish; if you make a mistake, forget about it and move on.”
Looking ahead, Hope plans to pursue a career in nursing at the University of Oklahoma. While she may not be playing volleyball in five years, the lessons she’s learned on the court will stay with her. “My goal is to always give my best effort and be there for my teammates no matter the circumstances,” she said, a philosophy she’ll carry into her future.
