Get to know White Bear Lake HS volleyball player Annika Olson
WHITE BEAR LAKE, Minn. — Annika Olsen began playing volleyball eleven years ago, starting with White Bear Lake Recreation Volleyball for two years, then moving on to play WBL Club Volleyball for seven years and then onto high school volleyball.
During high school, she played Junior Varsity during her freshman year, then played Varsity into her current senior year. Her greatest accomplishments so far this season is reaching 1,000 set assists and her team winning The Bloktoberfest at Irondale High School.
The most memorable time for her this year was beating Park Cottage Grove High School in five sets.
“The energy from my teammates and the fans was contagious and energizing, and I remember close games like those forever,” said Annika.
She loves the rush of energy she feels in close games, and also growing into a family with her teammates. Her other achievements include all conference honorable mention her sophomore year, all conference her junior year and becoming captain for her junior and senior year.
“One challenge I have faced is becoming a captain as a Junior. This was an honor but it came with some challenges. I had to earn the respect of my teammates, especially those older than me and I had to prove that I could be an effective leader both on and off the court,” said Annika.
She believes communication is one of the most important things to be good at this sport.
“Volleyball is a team sport and with a lack of communication the ball will drop,” said Annika.
Being a member of a team has taught her how to be a leader, how to work with others, and how to get the best out of each person. The best piece of advice she has received is from her mom who told her, “communication leads to success.”
Annika thanks all her teammates, coaches, and friends. “Most of all I would like to say thank you to my family for always being there for me and pushing me to be better everyday.”
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