Erin Donnelly, senior volleyball captain, radiates positive energy on the court through her bright smiles, strong hits, and sisterly advice.
Only two seniors on the team, Donnelly was not necessarily surprised she was named captain, but grateful nonetheless.
“I was just happy and glad I was asked to take this next step on the team,” said Donnelly.
Working her way up, Donnelly has proved she has the leadership qualities as a captain. Showing that it is okay to have bad days and helping train before important games are just some of the ways Donnelly mentors the younger teammates.
Donnelly enjoys showing her support through different love languages. For her, gift giving and words of affirmation are so important in order to build a strong foundation that will carry the team to the Naugatuck Valley League Championships and States.
One program that this captain supports strongly is the little sister, big sister relationships. An upperclassmen is paired with an underclassmen, so the new players have someone to go to for advice, if needed.
“I have themed days for my little sister,” said Donnelly. “Most recently, I threw a whole bunch of blue items together as a special treat for her.”
Donnelly, herself, was just given a new position and had to adapt through the change. She used her experience to connect to underclassmen.
“Sometimes I message the sophomores who are stepping up to varsity to make sure they know I am proud of them every step of the way,” said Donnelly. “I love to show my support.”
