There is a lot of work that goes into being a successful athlete. There is physical work and also mental preperation. Stella Huggins says that while it takes a lot of work, it is a great feeling to have that work recognized.

“In order to be successful in sports, it has taken hard work and the support from my family and friends,” she said. “The highlight moment of my career so far has been making the American Volleyball Coaches Association All American list. It was awesome to see my name on the list among all the outstanding volleyball players.”

Huggins is a senior at Edison High School. She plays outside, right side, and defensive specialist for the school’s volleyball team. While she knows that the work is important, Stella says that there are a few things that keep her motivated.

“Playing alongside my teammates, knowing we are working together to get the win is a big motivation for me,” Huggins said. “Also, the feeling of winning is a great incentive also.”

Throughout her life, Stella has had a number of people that have had an impact on her life, but she says that there are a few that have had a bigger influence.

“My parents would have to be the biggest role models in my life,” she said. “They have shown me my whole life that I am capable of doing anything I put my mind to. Also, one of my teachers has been impactful on my life. Mr. Bakker is my leadership teacher. He has shown me how to be a great leader and help make the world a better place.”

During her career at Edison, Stella and her teammates have competed against a number of different schools. But she says out of all of them, there is one that she enjoys beating the most.

“I would say that an opponent I enjoy beating the most would have to be Booker T. Washington,” she stated. “It is because of the rivalry between our schools for the past years.”