Jaden Sandoval digs Spartan volleyball. photo courtesy of Robert Sandoval
Volleyball shapes one life at a time at Thomas Jefferson.
Juniors Amber Mosley and Junior Jaden Sandoval are impressive volleyball players who just recently transferred from George Washington High School (GW) to pursue their interests at Thomas Jefferson High School.
Mosley is a player who is still adjusting to her life at TJ. She is currently on JV and plays as an outside and middle hitter. She also played club volleyball to improve her skills. “It’s fun! I like how it’s a team sport and it’s fun being hyped up about something,” she expressed. “She is another kid with a great attitude, athleticism, and work ethic,” expressed the head volleyball coach, Erik Rhee. At GW, Mosley was enrolled in the International Baccalaureate program. It served her very well, but lacked the flexibility to accommodate her demanding athletic schedule. At TJ, she has been able to strike a balance between academic rigor and athletic accomplishment.
Since these ladies transferred from another high school, the Colorado High School Athletics Association (CHSAA) has certain rules and regulations for student athletes around the state. One rule requires transfers to not play on varsity for at least half of the season, if they are good enough to play. According to the rule, Mosley must play on Junior Varsity for at least half of the season before swinging or officially being on the team. However, if someone is injured for more than half or the entire season, he or she are allowed on varsity. High school volleyball starts in August and could last till November if the team makes it to state. Sandoval has had shoulder surgery last February and will be out till the end of October.
Sandoval has already noticed the differences: “I really like, so far, the community feel which wasn’t as present at George,” she explained. Just like Mosley, she also was in the IB program. She has been playing volleyball for about 11 years and has no plans on stopping. Sandoval has already verbally committed to the University of Denver and is looking forward to be playing with the Pioneers as one of their outside hitters. Since she has not been playing due to her injury, she has been helping out at practice and encouraging the players to do their best. Coach Rhee explained, “Sandoval has been a great influence so far, even though she has not cleared to play. She has a great attitude and she is always wanting to help no matter what we are working on.”
Volleyball is very important to these girls because it’s shaped them to be who they are today. “I’ve been given so many opportunities with volleyball. I’ve traveled quite a bit with it,” Sandoval explained. Volleyball has given each of these girls the opportunity to explore new things and meet new friends throughout the years. The game is very intense and is mostly mental. “It’s a mental game and takes a lot more skill than just lifting weights or digging a ball,” recalled Sandoval. Millions of girls every year play the game for fun or compete during club season to improve their skills. “The moment after you get a good kill, it’s just like the best thing,” said the excited Mosley.
Although transferring into a new school can be tough for most students, Mosley and Sandoval have adapted well. They have made many new friends and feel very welcomed here at TJ. Both girls are very excited to have a fresh start and to continue their volleyball careers as Spartans in high school and possibly into college.
