Isabella Toops loves the game of volleyball and has worked hard to become the player that she is today. She says that just going to scheduled practices is not enough if you want to be successful. Toops says that perseverance is also important.

“I have been in volleyball for years,” she said. “I can’t count the hours of practice that I have trained. I have had to change my outlook on things, and I’ve had to learn and adapt to many things over the years. There is always more to learn, and as I grow, so do the people around me, making everything I need to learn more complex, but I continue to practice. I play volleyball year-round, and playing with different people has helped me to become a stronger player and teammate.”

A junior at Catoosa High School, Bella, as she is known to her friends, plays outside hitter and left back on the Lady Indians volleyball team. Along with becoming a better volleyball player, she says that being part of a team is something that she also appreciates.

“I love the feeling I get whenI get a good hit or great play, that is what it is all about,” Toops said. “Knowing that I was a part of something more than just myself. It takes the whole team to make it work. The friendships and bonds that I have made in volleyball are great too. Most recently My 16s club season was difficult, but I loved it. I became so close with my teammates, and I learned so much about my position on the court.”

Bella has a couple of women that she looks up to as role models. She says that they have played an important role in her life and helped shape her into who she is today.

“My mom is one of my biggest role models,” she stated. “As I’ve grown, I’ve watched her take care of me and provide for my family. She is the one who got me into volleyball and was my first coach. She pushes me to better myself so I can be successful in not only volleyball but life. One of my teachers, Mrs. Barrett has been my teacher since the seventh grade and has watched me grow into who I am today. She has cultivated my love for science and she always makes time to be a supportive mentor and quiet listening ear when needed.”