Player Profile of Alliya Drzewiecki

WHAT SHE DID: Drzewiecki’s “summer” began in January, when she joined a travel volleyball team called Atlantis. And Drzewiecki certainly did travel. The team was based inSidney, Ohio, which meant she journeyed one hour and 15 minutes — one way — two or more times a week just to attend practices. The travel season ended on July 4, but by that time Drzewiecki already had begun attending open gyms at St. Ursula three times a week in preparation for the coming season. And all that time Drzewiecki also was working with a training company to improve her jumping, agility and quickness.

HOW IT HELPED: “It’s never given to you that you’re going to be better, so I try to do the extra work to improve. I don’t love training, but it’s what you have to do to become successful in the end. You have to be mentally fit too, because the work isn’t easy and you can get frustrated, but you have to push hard to get through [the work] just like you have to push hard in games. I’m sure every athlete has thoughts about quitting during the off-season, but I’d rather be tired now and have the success that comes from this work later.”

OUTLOOK: Drzewiecki has tasted greatsuccess in her time at St. Ursula, helping the Arrows post a 79-5 record and three City League titles in her first three seasons. The 6-foot outside hitter was a member of the 2004 team that won the Division I state title as well as the 2005 team that was state runner-up. Last year Drzewiecki, who has verbally committed to play volleyball at Florida State, was voted All-Ohio first team and City League player of the year while leading the Arrows to the regional final.