Photo courtesy of Plant City High School Yearbook Team
Madi Vega
Madi is a 17-year-old at Plant City High School who plays volleyball for the Raiders volleyball team.
How long have you been playing volleyball?
I have been playing volleyball for about 9 years.
What’s your favorite thing about volleyball?
My favorite thing about volleyball is my teammates and how well we work together. Every play depends on trust; whether it’s a pass, a set, or a kill, it only works if everyone is connected. And that starts with good teammates.
Do you have a favorite memory involving volleyball?
My favorite memory from volleyball would have to be AAU nationals in 2024, so many fun memories were made with my best friends from my club team, and we did really good that year!
Do you plan on going to college? If so, do you want to continue playing volleyball at the collegiate level?
I do not plan to play at the collegiate level for volleyball, but outside of college, I would love to play sand volleyball or find a small league I could participate in to continue playing the sport I love.
What’s an area of volleyball that you’d like to improve in?
An area of volleyball I’d like to improve in is my mental game. Sometimes I can get too caught up in my own head, but I’m working on staying calm and remembering that God is in control. When I trust Him and focus on playing with confidence instead of overthinking, I perform better and enjoy the game more.
What advice would you give someone wanting to try out for the volleyball team next year?
I would say to work hard, be a good teammate, and don’t be scared to make mistakes. That’s how you get better.
Is there a rule in volleyball that you’d change if allowed? If so, what would it be and why?
If I could change a rule, l’d let players touch the net as long as it doesn’t affect the play. Sometimes the smallest brush against the net can cost us a point even when it doesn’t affect an actual play.
Are there any songs that get you and your team hyped before playing volleyball?
Yes! When the song Flex by Cupid comes on during warm-ups the team and I always dance
What’s a sport that you haven’t played that you would want to try, and why?
I have pretty much tried every sport since I was younger, but a sport I never tried was softball, so I would probably try that if I had the opportunity!
When you’re not playing volleyball, what are you doing in your free time?
When I am not playing volleyball, I am usually hanging out with my friends, going to church, or watching my favorite TV shows at home!
