By: Nate Calvin
THE VILLAGE REPORTER
sports@thevillagereporter.com
WEST UNITY – Senior setter Eleana VanArsdalen became the third Lady Cadet in the history of the volleyball program to reach 1,000 career assists on October 1 at home versus Holgate.
VanArsdalen joins Kacy Connolly (1,251 assists from 2019-2021) and Kortney (Nofziger) Kessler (1,452 assists from 2002-2004) on the 1,000 career assists list.
“This accomplishment means a lot to me because volleyball has always been my favorite sport and I have put a lot of time and effort into making myself better at it, stated VanArsdalen, who was named 1st Team District 7 and 2nd Team BBC this season.
“I could have never reached this goal without the support and performance of my teammates”, added the senior, who also plays basketball and softball and is involved in NHS, Student Council, and CCP classes.
Last season, VanArsdalen earned 2nd Team BBC and set the school record for aces in a season.
“My family has always pushed me to reach the goals I set for myself and support me throughout the process.”
“Throughout the season, they never showed any doubt, but I also knew they wouldn’t be disappointed no matter what the outcome was.
She began playing volleyball in the fifth grade and was able to spend a lot of time in the gym since her mom, Rhonda VanArsdalen, is an assistant coach for Hilltop.
“It takes a special person to be one of the most influential players on the offense, yet not always receive the recognition”, commented longtime head coach Janice Bruner.
“Fans see the amazing dig or the spectacular kill, but often forget what the setter does in between and the critical decisions she makes for the team.”
“Also, Eleana has to make a “not so great pass” look amazing with her set and then also absorbs the critiques from hitters when they aren’t as successful…. “please set the ball higher/ lower/ farther away/ closer to the net”. She handles this role successfully for us and that is why our team functions effectively.”
“Eleana has improved in her physical strength and ability to read the floor and react to situational play. She has also developed into one of the best servers the Hilltop volleyball program has seen.”
“She has always loved the game, and her enthusiasm is really evident in her senior season”, added Bruner.
“The most important thing I do while playing volleyball is have fun. I’ve played many sports in the past, but volleyball has always been my favorite because I’m always enjoying myself while I play. Having fun will also make you want to push yourself to accomplish your goals.”
“One of my fondest memories of high school volleyball was winning the Archbold Spiketacular my sophomore year”, said VanArsdalen.
“Our school had never won the tournament before, so it was really fun to achieve that win as a team. Something I will take away from my high school career is that having close relationships with your teammates and your coaches is an extremely important part of success.”
After graduation, she plans to attend the University of Toledo and major in accounting.
